According to a report from The Athletic (as captured by @iMiaSanMia), a major selling point for Bayern Munich to hire Vincent Kompany was his “connection” to Manchester City boss — and former Bayern Munich coach — Pep Guardiola:
The biggest appeal to Bayern was Kompany’s connection to Guardiola. Bayern sought out Pep’s opinion, and he offered a glowing reference of his former player. While Kompany’s Burnley found themselves outclassed in the Premier League, during their promotion from the Championship they dominated the ball, pressed relentlessly and exerted their will on opponents. Burnley were stylish and proactive and many of their attacking shapes were familiar to Guardiola’s City.
While tactics and formations were not top of Bayern’s agenda in making this appointment, the suitability of Kompany’s football to both the current squad and the style expected of them went a long way to assuaging doubts about him. There is also an acceptance internally at Bayern that Kompany is an evolving coach.
Now, all Kompany has to do is come in and prove himself (probably rather quickly). Easy, right?
Looking for more thoughts on Bayern Munich’s transfer strategy for the summer, including which players we would not mind seeing brought in? What about some ideas on whether or not Bayern Munich is set up to play a 4-4-2? Want even more? Well, we also have takes on Joshua Kimmich’s future in Bavaria, the German national team’s potential cut down, and Julian Nagelsmann’s possible mistake with Germany. Sound good? Then we have you covered with our Bavarian Podcast Works — Weekend Warm-up Show, which is available on Spotify or below: