Bayern Munich has named Vincent Kompany as their new head coach, signing the Belgian on a three-year deal. Kompany, 38, steps in to replace Thomas Tuchel and departs from Burnley after the clubs agreed on a compensation fee of £10.2 million. Despite leading Burnley to a Championship title in the 2022-23 season, Kompany’s tenure ended on a sour note as the Clarets were relegated from the Premier League, finishing 19th this season.
“It’s a great honor to be able to work for this club – FC Bayern is an institution in international football,” said Kompany, the former Manchester City defender, expressing his enthusiasm for his new role.
Kompany, who retired from playing in 2020, initially joined Burnley from Anderlecht in 2022 and had signed a five-year contract extension last year. However, after Burnley’s defeat to Nottingham Forest on the final day of the season, Kompany declined to discuss his future, signaling potential changes ahead.
Burnley admitted they were hopeful of retaining Kompany but acknowledged the challenge posed by Bayern Munich’s prestige. “We understand the allure and prestige of a club like Bayern Munich and respect Vincent’s ambition to explore new opportunities,” the club stated, reflecting their resignation to his departure.
As of now, there has been no confirmation on whether Kompany’s backroom team, including assistant manager Craig Bellamy, will accompany him to Germany.
The appointment follows a turbulent period for Bayern Munich, who finished third in the Bundesliga this season, their worst league performance since 2010-11. The club struggled to find a successor for Tuchel, whose departure was initially announced in February. Potential candidates, including Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso, Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann, and Austria’s Ralf Rangnick, all declined the role.
Bayern’s sporting director, Christoph Freund, praised Kompany’s fit with the club’s playing philosophy. “Vincent Kompany is a type of coach who fits in very well with FC Bayern’s playing philosophy and identity,” Freund stated. “He is a young, very ambitious coach who brings a lot of international experience, has his finger on the pulse of the players, and knows exactly what should happen on the pitch.”
Kompany has earned respect during his coaching stints at Anderlecht and Burnley, although Burnley’s relegation has cast a shadow over his recent accomplishments. A four-time Premier League champion as a player with Manchester City, Kompany began his coaching career at Anderlecht in 2020 before moving to Turf Moor.
As Bayern Munich looks to restore its dominance in the Bundesliga, Kompany’s appointment marks a significant step in their efforts to reclaim past glories.
