„Smart decision“: Henry praises Bayern for Kompany coup | OneFootball

The signing of Vincent Kompany in the summer of 2024 was initially viewed critically at FC Bayern. After a turbulent coaching search and the Belgian’s relegation with Burnley FC, many experts doubted the Munich club’s decision. For Thierry Henry, however, the move was understandable from the outset. The French World and European Champion has now expressly praised the Bayern management for their courage

The record champions‘ search for a coach two years ago was anything but straightforward. Numerous candidates were considered, several preferred solutions declined. In the end, Bayern opted for Vincent Kompany – despite his relegation from the Premier League with Burnley

For Thierry Henry, this decision was a sign of foresight

„You have to show them great respect“

„You have to pay a lot of respect to the Bayern management for signing him despite Burnley’s relegation because they saw something in him that fits the club’s identity. It was a smart decision,“ Henry explained in an interview with Sports Illustrated

The Frenchman’s words are likely to be well received at Säbener Straße, as Kompany has impressively proven that the club’s decision-makers were right in their assessment. In his first season, the Belgian led Munich straight to the double and established a clear style of play

Bayern have impressed Henry for years

But it wasn’t just Kompany himself who impressed Henry: the former world-class striker made it clear that he generally regards FC Bayern as a role model among Europe’s top clubs

„When you see players like Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Luis Díaz, Harry Kane, Serge Gnabry and Joshua Kimmich, it’s a pleasure,“ enthused the 47-year-old

He is particularly impressed by the continuity in the club’s management. Henry referred to numerous former French Bayern professionals who had told him about their time in Munich. „I have always admired FC Bayern for the way the club is run. Former players such as Franck Ribéry, Willy Sagnol and Bixente Lizarazu spoke highly of Bayern, the club, the fans and the mentality – in fact, everything.“

The Bayern DNA as a recipe for success

photo: IMAGO

For Henry, the key to success lies above all in Munich’s transfer policy. Unlike many other top clubs, Bayern does not necessarily chase after the biggest names

„If you look at the players they sign, it’s not always about big names. They bring in footballers who fit their identity. That’s exactly why it works,“ explained the former Arsenal and Barcelona star

This statement certainly fits in with more recent signings such as Michael Olise or Luis Díaz, who were highly regarded before their transfer but were not among the absolute superstars of world soccer

Henry’s statements can therefore certainly be seen as confirmation for those responsible around Max Eberl, Christoph Freund and Vincent Kompany. After the turbulent years before, FC Bayern seems to have found a clear sporting course again

The fact that a highly respected international soccer expert like Thierry Henry is now publicly praising this path should further strengthen Munich’s strategy.