The new Kompany-era at Bayern: Kimmich reminded of Guardiola | OneFootball

FC Bayern is experiencing a surge under Vincent Kompany that fans on Säbener Straße haven't seen in years. 16 games, 16 wins – and the recent 2-1 triumph against the reigning Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain has catapulted Munich back to the top of Europe.

One who knows how to put the success into perspective is Joshua Kimmich. After the victory in Paris, the midfield chief raved: “To perform against such an opponent with this intensity – it reminded me of our best games under Pep Guardiola.”

Kimmich was referring to the legendary 2016 Champions League match in Turin, when Bayern excelled under Guardiola's pressing but only managed a 2-2 draw. This time, Kompany's team held onto the 2-1 lead with impressive maturity.

From Guardiola's Pupil to Straight-Talking Coach

Photo: IMAGO

For eleven years, Kompany was Manchester City's defensive chief, captain, and Guardiola's extended arm on the field. The Spaniard's tactical school has shaped him – but Kompany interprets it in his own way. “He is predictable in the best sense,” explained Kimmich. “You know what you're getting – and that builds trust.”

While Guardiola often surprised with tactical experiments before top matches, Kompany relies on clarity, structure, and communication. His Bayern plays purposefully, intensely, and with great team spirit – without frills, but with a plan.

From Stopgap to Architect of a New Record Champion

When Kompany came to Munich in the summer of 2024, he was still considered a stopgap. Burnley had just been relegated from the Premier League, and Bayern had missed out on preferred candidates like Xabi Alonso or Zinedine Zidane. Today, the Belgian is the architect of a modern record champion.

Sports director Max Eberl praised after the victory in Paris: “We played against one of the best teams in Europe and dominated them in the first half.”

And CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen spoke of an “evening that felt like a final.”

When Luis Díaz was sent off with a red card shortly before halftime, Kompany adjusted his system – from offensive frenzy to defensive discipline. The team passed this test with flying colors. “We often train with a numerical disadvantage,” Manuel Neuer revealed dryly. “That was no surprise.”

In the end, it was a victory that was more than just three points – it was a statement. Under Kompany, Bayern is not only beautiful but also strong, not only creative but also combative.

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