FC Bayern impressed last season with spectacular attacking soccer. Defensively, however, the record champions repeatedly showed weaknesses. That is exactly where Vincent Kompany is now focusing his efforts in preparation for the new season.
With 36 goals conceded, Munich did indeed field one of the league’s best defenses in the past Bundesliga season. Only Borussia Dortmund conceded fewer, with 34 goals.
Nevertheless, the back line wasn’t always rock-solid. Especially in crucial matches on the international stage, FC Bayern repeatedly made unnecessary mistakes. In particular, the spectacular 4–5 loss in the first leg of the Champions League semifinal against Paris Saint-Germain made it clear that, despite their tremendous offensive quality, the Munich side still has room for improvement defensively.
While the attack regularly produced goals in rapid succession, the team lacked the necessary stability when defending in certain phases.
Kompany is focusing on the defense
Vincent Kompany appears to have identified precisely this area as a key focus for the new season.
As reported by the Abendzeitung München, defensive work is a particular focus at the training camp on Lake Tegernsee. According to the report, the defenders are sometimes completing separate training sessions specifically designed to work on coordination and positioning.
The Bayern coach is actively involved on the training field himself, repeatedly giving his defenders specific instructions. The main areas for improvement are proper stepping out, positioning within the back four, and how to react in various game situations.
This comes as little surprise to Kompany. Even as a player, the Belgian was regarded as an outstanding center back with great tactical understanding. He now wants to pass this experience on to his team.
Defense is set to become a key factor for success
Especially in the Champions League, even the slightest lapse in concentration can mean the difference between advancing and being eliminated. Accordingly, Kompany is likely to do everything in his power to give his team even greater defensive stability.
World champion Spain recently demonstrated that a compact defense can be the key to major titles. On their way to the World Cup title, the Spaniards conceded only one goal and impressed above all with their team unity when defending.
FC Bayern already boasts tremendous quality on offense. If Kompany can now bring the defense up to a similarly consistent level, the Munich side could be even harder to beat in the new season.
In any case, the intense training sessions at Lake Tegernsee suggest that the Belgian doesn’t want to waste any time. Even during preseason, the 40-year-old is meticulously working on the details—with the clear goal of making the record champions’ defense one of the team’s greatest strengths.