Bayern Munich are closing in on a sensational deal to make Vincent Kompany their next manager replacing Thomas Tuchel
Kompany led Burnley to the Championship title, though has been unable to keep them in the Premier League this term, with the Clarets suffering immediate relegation. The Belgian boss was widely criticized for sticking fiercely to his principles of attractive football.
His side won just five games and conceded 78 goals to finish second-bottom of the table. Despite that, he has emerged as the surprise frontrunner to replace Thomas Tuchel at Bundesliga giants Bayern.
Tuchel has left the club after a disappointing season that saw them finish third in the German top-flight and crash out of the DFB-Pokal in the second round to third-tier side Saarbrucken.
Though there had been some suggestions he might stay, Tuchel has confirmed he is on his way out. That has left Bayern turning to Kompany, with talks now understood to be at an advanced stage.
Burnley owner Alan Pace has already held talks with Bayern chiefs over compensation. It is hoped that a deal taking Kompany to the Allianz Arena can be completed by the end of the week.
Allowing Kompany to leave Turf Moor now will allow the Clarets the time to find the right replacement. They are looking to challenge for another promotion from the Championship next season.
While some eyebrows will be raised at Kompany taking over such a big job, there is a feeling he could succeed at the top level. Bayern have already been rebuffed by Xabi Alonso and Ralf Rangnick, with Kompany a back-up option.
Burnley’s relegation had already been confirmed before their defeat to Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Speaking after the defeat, Kompany gave no hint he was considering his future, instead insisting he was looking forward to the promotion challenge.
“We won’t sit feeling sorry for ourselves. It’s almost drawing a line under it now and there’s an exciting future ahead. We have a really strong squad, not quite ready for the Premier League yet I’ll be honest,” he said”.
“But Championship wise it’s a very, very exciting squad and hopefully they can get back to the Premier League. You saw Forest celebrating there at the end on our pitch and we don’t take anything for granted”.
“The Championship is very tough but hopefully it’s us celebrating on the pitch on the final day next season. It’s never an easy moment on these sort of occasions. But there’s always a moment where it comes to an end and now we have to rely on the rise of other players.”