Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany addressed the media with confidence and clarity as his side prepare for a blockbuster UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu.

With both teams among Europe’s elite, the spotlight is on how Bayern plan to approach a Real Madrid side that has already proven its strength in the competition this season.

Kompany began by outlining exactly what kind of opponent he is preparing for, making it clear that his focus is on Madrid at their most dangerous.

“It’s the toughest match you can face in Europe.

“I expect the Real Madrid that beat Manchester City,” he began saying.

On Harry Kane

Another major talking point ahead of the clash has been the fitness of Harry Kane. 

The striker’s availability could play a decisive role, and Kompany offered a detailed update on his condition.

Providing insight into Kane’s recovery process and current readiness, he explained,

“Although he hasn’t been training on the pitch during this time, he’s been through a second phase of his recovery. 

“And during this time, even though he hasn’t played, he’s trained a lot. I don’t think he’s lost his rhythm. 

“But we’ll see what happens tomorrow. He’s here, and that’s very positive. Everyone’s here except Ulreich.”

How will Bayern approach this match?

Discipline is often a key factor in high-intensity European fixtures, and Kompany was also asked whether the number of players at risk of suspension could influence Bayern’s approach.

Responding to that concern, he made it clear that performance remains the priority over caution, stating,

“We don’t have that many, but we do have a few. That said, we have to think about performance. Focus solely on that. 

“Because if we play with too much intensity, we might pick up a few yellow cards. But that’s not part of the tactics. 

“It’s something you simply have to accept if you’re playing a high-intensity match.”

On Mbappe and Vinicius

Kompany was also questioned about the attacking threat posed by Real Madrid, particularly the combination of Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe, a duo capable of deciding any game on their day.

Choosing not to delve too deeply into Madrid’s internal dynamics, he responded with a touch of humour and realism, saying,

“But that’s not my business at all! Believe me, if you’d seen the press conferences in Munich, I’ve got plenty of hot topics to deal with. 

“I can’t possibly get into the ones here. All I can say is that they’re both incredible. And from here on, it’s up to Madrid.”

Previous matches

Finally, when asked about lessons from previous eliminations and how Bayern plan to approach this tie, Kompany delivered a clear and focused message.

“If we analyse the players we have today, we’re in a very good position to play this match. And we must do everything in our power to win. 

“Everything we do must be based on what we can do; not on what our opponents can do. 

“And that’s what we must focus on. On winning tomorrow,” he concluded.

Source: AS