German Football League - Kompany seeking Bayern stars for lifestyle employment.
Vincent Kompany spoke in his newly constructed football home, casually switching between German and English, expressing his eagerness to implement a new working style that aims to revive Bayern Munich's glory and secure championships. Far from feeling pressured by the Champions League final on May 31, 2025, being held at Munich's Allianz Arena, he sees it as a motivating factor.
"Our ambitions will always be sky-high. I aim to win every game, yet I'm not focusing on the final right now." Juxtaposing his unexpected appointment as Bayern's coach after a series of searches for new management, success has been ingrained in the 38-year-old Belgian player turned coach, whose upbringing as a street kid from Brussels catalyzed into a dedicated football player and a fruitful career. His relentless grind through days and years continues unwaveringly. "I've got no alternate lifestyle away from my work," explains the family man with three children. "My work is my lifestyle - a 24/7 pursuit."
Kompany views his role as a trainer in professional sport as a never-ending cycle of non-stop commitment, reminiscent of his early days at RSC Anderlecht and later with FC Burnley. As a former top defender and a multiple title winner with Manchester City, who's familiar with the Bundesliga from his stint at Hamburger SV, he aspired to impose the same relentless dedication at the top German football club. Fueled by his goal of influencing everyone, both administrators, players, and fans, with his actions on the pitch.
At his introductory press conference on Thursday, Kompany's casual demeanor in a clean white shirt showcased his disinterest in being the initial candidate for Bayern's coaching position. "I'm just proud and geared up," said Kompany, feeling content with the support of Bayern's influential leaders, such as club board members Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.
Executive board member Jan-Christian Dreesen and sports director Max Eberl also graced the stage, praising Kompany as Bayern's best option. "Vincent Kompany has our approval," stated Dreesen, accentuating the club's unity about their choice. Acknowledging Bayern's previous coaching hiccups, Eberl realized the necessity to unify the club: "Bayern Munich has had a turbulent history with head coaches. This is a possibility to gather together again." Eberl further appraised Kompany as "one of the most appealing coaches in Europe."
The new coach will now focus on the squad's restructuring, sending a message to the Munich professionals currently on their vacations or preparing for the EM with the DFB national team. "I won't discriminate. I want to see who is most driven to represent this team and triumph," expressed a thrilled Kompany, excited for the collaboration. His playing style during Bayern's title chases will incorporate courage on the ball and aggressive efforts in general.
Eberl intends to instill a higher standard in the Bayern stars and change the roster but, as he clarifies, "there's no sacking list at Bayern." Moreover, he confirmed that things have progressed more than what's being perceived, while Kompany's experience as a leader of Manchester City compensates for his inexperience as a coach. "It's about the experiences I accumulated during my time in the manager's office," confirms Kompany. Bayern is set to pay more than ten million euros as compensation for hiring Kompany, who signed a deal lasting until 2027. A deal that puts him in the same timespan of Guardiola's most recent tenure at Bayern.
As they move on with their plans, Kompany, Eberl, and the team are concentrating on squad restructuring. Though Dreesen maintains no dismissal list at Bayern, he admitted there might be players struggling to adapt. "We're at an advanced stage in our planning," concludes Eberl. Kompany, having encountered numerous starry teams and ego-laden players in his Manchester City captaincy days, is prepared for the challenges that this role might bring. "Above all, it's that I've spent years at this top level," reaffirms the coach.
FC Bayern (Bayern squad), Bundesliga, table, trainers, and fixtures are being reassessed as Kompany's influence looms large.
Kompany, at the peak of his career, is now ready to adapt his once-familiar football world to control the future of one of the world's most popular clubs. And the Bavarian giants are counting on him to end their recent struggles by injecting a new sense of fierceness and daring into their game. Will his efforts pay off? Only time can provide the answer.
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