With Vincent Kompany at the helm of FC Bayern Munich, there are signs of significant changes in the German record champions‘ playing philosophy. The Belgian could leave behind the traditional wing play that was characterised under Louis van Gaal with stars such as Arjen Robben and Franck Ribéry.
According to Sport Bild, internal analyses at the club have shown that a reorientation could be necessary. The main reason for this is that key players are prone to injury. Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry, who play key roles on the wings, were only able to play a fraction of the possible minutes last season.
While Coman was on the pitch for 39 per cent of the possible playing time, Gnabry only achieved 17 per cent. Both players could be on the sales list. However, the high salaries and transfer fees of both players are likely to make a sale difficult. Coman receives a princely annual salary of around €15 million, but is said to be able to imagine a move. Gnabry, on the other hand, feels at home in Munich and would like to stay.
According to the report, Coman could opt for a 4-4-2 system in future, as he has often done at previous clubs.
Kompany without regard for individual destinies?
In a recent interview with FCBtv, Kompany spoke about his approach: „I don’t see the game in any other way than scoring goals. That’s the most important thing. I think that fits in with what Bayern want to express. It fits with what great teams have to be. I hope we can realise that next season.“ His statements could indicate that the Belgian coach will organise the team according to its strengths and pay little heed to individual destinies.
Should Kompany really change the team’s system of play, this could also have an impact on Munich’s transfer activities. The former HSV player continues to emphasise the importance of team spirit and hard work: „I want this team to teach things like: Can you be the best individual players, but also the best team? Can you be the most talented players, but also the hardest working?“ This is a clear sign of what Kompany expects from his players in the future.
