Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany faces a tricky Bundesliga task against SC Freiburg before a Champions League match in Madrid.
The statistics favour Bayern, who have only lost once in their last 45 matches against Freiburg. The loss occurred in May 2015 when Bayern had already secured the league title.
Kompany’s Focus on Freiburg
Despite the upcoming Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid, Kompany insists his focus is solely on the Freiburg match. He recognises the challenge Freiburg poses: “If I have a difficult away game in the Bundesliga on my list, then this game is one of them.”
According to Kompany, “They have to believe me that this week it was only about Freiburg.” He is aware of the potential to prioritise the Champions League match over the Bundesliga game.
Squad Availability and Selection
Almost the entire squad is available for Kompany, with the exception of Harry Kane and Nicolas Jackson. Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies are ready for minutes. Kompany states, “Now there is no longer the luxury of being able to choose a lot. We have to win. Every player has to reach their best level and deliver the maximum.”
Kompany says that “Priority is the momentum”, but individual changes are not out of the question.
Managing Minutes and Maintaining Tension
It is a difficult balancing act for the manager, who has to manage minutes and keep the tension high.
Prior to their Champions League matches against Paris and Arsenal, Bayern were able to perform well in the Bundesliga, with a 3-0 win against Leverkusen and a 6-2 win against Freiburg.
Ultimately, Kompany believes: “The boys are professionals.” He believes they have not been suspected of slacking, no matter the game.
The match against Real Madrid is on Tuesday.