Soccer

Bayern Munich close to deal for Vincent Kompany to take over as manager

Burnley in talks with Bayern over compensation in what would be a surprise appointment

Vincent Kompany has been lined up as the potential new Bayern Munich manager. Photograph: Richard Sellers/PA Wire
Vincent Kompany has been lined up as the potential new Bayern Munich manager. Photograph: Richard Sellers/PA Wire
Jacob Steinberg
Wed May 22 2024 - 20:17

Bayern Munich are close to ending their protracted search for a new manager by handing the vacancy to Burnley’s Vincent Kompany.

The Bundesliga club have encountered frustration in their hunt for a replacement for Thomas Tuchel, who departed after ending the season without winning a trophy. The German’s exit was agreed in February but Bayern’s desperation even saw them try to persuade the former Chelsea manager to stay.

Forced to think again when Tuchel decided to stick to the original plan, Bayern opted to target Kompany. The Belgian was a surprise candidate given his part in Burnley’s limp relegation from the Premier League.

However, talks are at an advanced stage and it is understood that Burnley’s owner, Alan Pace, held talks with Bayern officials over compensation on Wednesday. It is hoped that the deal could be concluded by the end of the week.

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Kompany, who began his managerial career at Anderlecht, earned a big reputation after joining Burnley two years ago. The former Manchester City defender took the Championship by storm, earning rave reviews after turning a defensive team into a thrilling attacking outfit, and led Burnley back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.

There were hopes that Burnley could succeed at the highest level by sticking to their progressive style of play. But their recruitment was lacking and they finished in 19th place after managing only 24 points. Allowing Kompany to make a swift departure will give Burnley time to find the right replacement as they gear up for another promotion campaign.

There will be raised eyebrows at Kompany earning such a big job. Equally there is a feeling that the 38-year-old’s methods could work well with a side at the top level. Kompany has experience of living in Germany after representing Hamburg during his hugely successful playing career. He has been targeted by Chelsea but he is not in line to replace Mauricio Pochettino this summer.

Pochettino could have been of interest to Bayern after his exit from Chelsea. Bayern have been knocked back by Xabi Alonso and Ralf Rangnick, while they have not pursued interest in Erik ten Hag, Roberto De Zerbi and Hansi Flick. – Guardian