Farewell as a player: why Kompany was angry with HSV | OneFootball

Vincent Kompany made his breakthrough during his playing days at HSV. However, ahead of the duel against his former club, the Belgian has revealed a spicy detail.

When Vincent Kompany meets Hamburger SV as coach of FC Bayern on Saturday evening (6.30 pm, Sky), it's more than just a Bundesliga match for him. It's also a reunion - including memories of a turbulent time and a departure marked by disappointment.

The Belgian was under contract with HSV between 2006 and 2008 and was early on considered the future defensive chief. But an incident in the summer of 2008 changed everything: Kompany participated in the Olympic Games in Beijing with Belgium, the team was playing for medals. However, the Red Shorts called their protégé back early to use him in the Bundesliga. The disillusionment followed: the national player was only on the bench for the opening match in Munich.

"That was unacceptable to me," Kompany explained on Friday looking back. "They pull me back from the Olympics, and then I don't play. I was so angry that I decided: I want to leave."

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Shortly afterwards, Kompany ended up at Manchester City. It was a decision that would shape his career: In England, the right-footer became a leading player and captain, won numerous titles and became a club legend.

Despite the abrupt departure, he has not erased HSV from his heart. The Bayern coach describes his two years in Volkspark today as "warm", even though they were overshadowed by severe personal tragedies. His mother died during this time, his sister was diagnosed with cancer, and he suffered a months-long Achilles tendon tear. "It wasn't easy, but I received a lot of support and made many friends," says Kompany.

The fact that his departure was marked by great anger does not diminish this bond. But it explains why a bench seat in Munich 17 years ago marked the turning point of his career.

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