You cannot blame Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany — the former Manchester City defender is a tireless worker and is fully prepared for his team’s game against Atalanta on Wednesday. That said, Kompany always expects the unexpected.
“I know that never has a team managed to come back after such a result. But a second leg is always more difficult, especially as a coach, you realize how important it is to stay focused. The first leg is over. This is a club that never wants to lose. And the biggest
guarantee for a good performance is that I’m sure the players know that. It’s much better to go into the international break with two wins. And we’re prepared to sacrifice a lot to achieve that,” Kompany said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “It’s very difficult to predict how they’ll approach the game. Only the opposing coach can answer that. After our first leg, they played a very tough game in Milan and achieved a very good result. They were solid, dangerous, and very unpleasant to face against Inter. Against us, however, they were rather atypical – they’re not a team that concedes many goals. We’ll be prepared for anything tomorrow.”
When asked if he would be watching more Atalanta game film or enjoying the game between Manchester City and Real Madrid, the head coach said he would be tuning into the heavyweight clash involving his former club.
“I can’t watch any more Atalanta games than I already have,” said Kompany said with a laugh. “That’s why we’ll be watching the Champions League; it depends on the family: if they want to watch a simulcast, then that’s just how it is. But I’m looking forward to the Champions League night.”
With another transit strike expected to affect fan attendance, Kompany just wants everyone to be safe.
“We’ve never had fewer fans before. Our priority is that everyone arrives and returns home safe. The fans who make the effort to come should also watch a proper game. That’s our plan,” Kompany noted.
Finally, Kompany was asked if he is considering resting Upamecano and Laimer because they are a yellow card away from suspension. While he did not commit to anything, you can absolutely read between the lines.
“That’s a logical consideration. Who wouldn’t consider that? It is what it is. The fact is: with a yellow card, they would be suspended for the next game. But if it’s necessary, then so be it. There’s no special reasoning behind it,” said Kompany.
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