Upamecano reveals: How Kompany took his game to the next level | OneFootball

He plays more calmly, decisively, and with greater awareness: Dayot Upamecano is currently showing the most consistent performances of his career at FC Bayern. Vincent Kompany has played a significant role in this, as the Frenchman emphasizes.

When Kompany took over the team, Upamecano immediately knew that a lot would change. “We got started from day one,” the defender said in an interview with L’Équipe. The coach wasted no time and dove straight into the work: positioning, physical engagement, behavior with long balls. “He really helped me with my positioning – body posture, when and how to approach long balls.”

The center-back particularly highlights the meticulous video analysis. The sessions are long, intense, and detailed. “Some sessions last 30 to 40 minutes. There are very precise body positions that must be maintained.” Upamecano sees the results not just in himself: “We have become a team, a force.”

Kompany leaves nothing to chance – not even before top matches like against Paris. Upamecano describes how offensive the match plan was: “The coach insisted that we should not be afraid and should attack them. Before the game, he even told me: ‘If necessary, you will press the goalkeeper.’”

Conscious Risk-Taking by Upamecano

Photo: IMAGO

The fact that the 27-year-old implements such directives is also due to his playing style. He consciously takes risks, actively seeks the ball, and wants to shape the game from the back. “I like to initiate things with the ball, break through lines. There is a risk involved. But I have always liked taking risks.”

What particularly impresses him about Kompany: The coach knows his position from personal experience. “With Kompany, you feel that he has played in my position himself.” The analysis is not done through third parties – but directly, personally, concretely. “Sometimes he calls me: ‘Dayot, come to my office’ – and shows me videos with points I should improve.”

Upamecano has not become a different player – but a better one. “I feel much stronger. When Kompany came, a lot changed. He showed us how to defend better.” For the defender, it is clear: Anyone who wants to succeed must take on every duel. “I love defending. That is what I love: duels. I would never refuse a duel.”

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