Vincent Kompany makes surprise visit to Manchester City as club allegiances made clear | OneFootball

Bayern Munich manager and Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany made a surprise visit to the Etihad Stadium this week, it has been revealed.

Kompany is currently embarking on the latest chapter of his managerial career over in Germany, after he took charge of Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich prior to last season, although his heart remains firmly tethered to Manchester.

The former City captain and four-time Premier League champions has long spoken of his deep-rooted affection for the club and the city that shaped his legacy both on and off the pitch, while family connections have maintained his tie to the North-West.

Kompany’s visit comes at a time when City are preparing to welcome supporters back to the City Football Academy and Etihad Campus through various pre-season events, including an open training session on 5 August.

The 39-year-old enjoyed a storied playing career with Manchester City, making 360 appearances and lifting 12 honours under Roberto Mancini, Manuel Pellegrini, and Pep Guardiola.

Since retiring, Kompany has transitioned into management, first with Anderlecht and then Burnley, guiding them to a historic Championship title, before accepting the Bayern Munich job last summer following the Clarets’ relegation back into the second division.

Now, as per football writer Matthew Kerr – who met Vincent Kompany and took the opportunity for a photo with the former Manchester City captain at the club store – the now-Bayern Munich manager is visiting family in the region across the course of this week.

As part of Kompany’s visit to Manchester, the legendary former central defender for the club visited the store at the Etihad Stadium to purchase his children some new City kits – keeping up the support for the Sky Blues despite his ventures in management within the game.

X: mattjameskerr

Kompany’s trip may have been personal, but it subtly reinforces his affection for City – even as he takes charge of one of Europe’s most historic clubs. His children wearing the new 2025/26 City kits is not only a nod to the past but also a gesture that underscores where his footballing loyalties truly lie.

It is not the first time Kompany has made clear his admiration for City in recent months, having praised the influence of Pep Guardiola and the standards he encountered during his time at the Etihad Stadium upon joining Bayern Munich.

In the years ahead, Vincent Kompany’s managerial journey will be closely monitored by City fans and officials alike. Should he succeed at Bayern Munich, his name is likely to feature prominently in conversations surrounding Pep Guardiola’s long-term successor at the Etihad.

The Catalan coach’s contract currently runs until the summer of 2027, and Kompany’s continued public association with the club only adds further intrigue to that possibility. For now, though, Kompany’s low-key visit was simply a heart-warming reminder of his ties to the blue half of Manchester.