Vincent Kompany works with some of the world’s best soccer players at FC Bayern. But a former player he coached during his time in England has also left a lasting impression on the Belgian. Ahead of the Champions League match against Viking Stavanger, the Bayern coach was full of praise when asked about Norwegian national team player Sander Berge.
At the press conference ahead of the away game in Norway, Kompany was asked which Norwegian soccer players he had worked with during his career so far.
The 40-year-old recalled Berge, whom he once coached at FC Burnley. The defensive midfielder is now under contract with FC Fulham, where he is a regular starter.
Kompany is convinced that the 28-year-old still doesn’t receive the recognition he deserves based on his abilities.
Kompany: “A truly, truly underrated player”
“He’s a truly, truly underrated player. I have the privilege of currently working with some of the best players in Europe. He’s always had the quality to play at this level,” explained the Bayern coach.
Kompany knows Berge from their time together at Burnley FC. In the summer of 2023, the then-Burnley coach signed the Norwegian from Sheffield United for just under 14 million euros.
The two worked together for one season before parting ways in the summer of 2024. Kompany moved to FC Bayern, while Berge joined FC Fulham.
For the Munich head coach, it’s clear that his former player hasn’t always had the best conditions to reach his full potential throughout his career so far.
“He’s just had some bad luck with injuries at inopportune times throughout his career. In the Premier League, he and his teams faced repeated setbacks, and the timing probably wasn’t always right either,” Kompany explained.
However, the Belgian has no doubts about the Norwegian’s fundamental abilities.
“But when it comes to quality, talent, and personality, he can be among the best in European soccer,” emphasized the Bayern coach.
Bayern Coach Sees an Important Lesson in Berge’s Career
After some difficult years, Berge has now established himself in the Premier League. At Fulham FC, the 28-year-old plays a key role in defensive midfield.
He is also one of the experienced key players on the Norwegian national team. In total, Berge has already made 75 international appearances.
For Kompany, the development of his former protégé shows above all how important patience and perseverance are in professional soccer.
“What you can learn from this situation is to never give up. Eventually, doors will open,” explained the Bayern coach.
These comments make it clear just how highly Kompany continues to rate the midfielder. Despite his now extensive international experience, the Belgian apparently still sees great potential in Berge.