"Have become a real force": Bayern star full of praise for Kompany | OneFootball

The game at FC Bayern has visibly stabilized in defense. One of the main beneficiaries now speaks openly about his coach and does not hold back on praise.

Dayot Upamecano highlights the meticulous work of Vincent Kompany in a conversation with L’Équipe: “He really helped me with my positioning – body posture, when and how to approach long balls. We started from day one.” Video analysis also plays a central role: “Some sessions last 30 to 40 minutes. We have become a team, a force.”

Before the 2-1 victory against Paris, in which Upamecano delivered a stellar performance, Kompany had a clear message: “The coach insisted that we should not be afraid and attack them. Before the game, he even told me: ‘If necessary, you will press the goalkeeper.’”

Upamecano's flourishing under the Belgian is also due to his style of play. He consciously seeks risk: “I like to initiate things with the ball, break lines. There is a risk involved. But I have always liked taking risks.”

Upamecano on Olise: “He starts to tremble”

Photo: IMAGO

The 27-year-old appears more present, more aggressive – and he enjoys it: “I love defending. That’s what I love: duels. I would never refuse a duel.” Even in training, he goes all in: “Olise says: ‘Out of ten duels, I win ten!’ – But when I get serious and use my body, he starts to tremble (laughs).”

He also sees advantages in the daily work with Kompany compared to previous stations: “With Kompany, you feel that he played in my position himself. Sometimes he calls me: ‘Dayot, come to my office’ – and shows me videos with points I should improve on.”

Despite the positive words from the center-back, his future in Munich remains uncertain. His contract expires in the summer, talks with the club are ongoing, but there is no agreement yet. The Frenchman said about his future: “I am focusing on this season and my goals with the club and the national team. I don’t have the head for it.” He further explained: “I am very calm. I am under contract with FC Bayern. I have goals. I am very grateful if clubs are interested in me.”

The fact that he takes on a leadership role under Kompany could ultimately be a decisive argument for staying.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.