After more than two weeks of forced inactivity, there is finally some positive news again at FC Bayern. Vincent Kompany has returned to Säbener Straße following his hospital stay. The 40-year-old has thus taken an important step toward his comeback. Sky reporter Torben Hoffmann now reveals how the Belgian’s return unfolded.
On October 23, Kompany collapsed at the training facility of the German record champions. The Bayern coach subsequently had to spend six days in the hospital. He was diagnosed with meningitis. After his discharge, the Belgian was initially advised to rest at home.
Now Kompany has returned to work for the first time. As Torben Hoffmann reports in the Sky podcast “Mia san vier,” the head coach reappeared at Säbener Straße after an 18-day absence. However, the 40-year-old has not yet fully recovered.
Kompany is still wearing an arm sling
“He actually still had his arm in a sling because, when he collapsed while watching the second team—that’s when it happened—he also injured his shoulder,” Hoffmann reports.
During his visit, he also met with club officials. According to Hoffmann, Kompany spoke at length with sporting director Christoph Freund. Assistant coach Floribert Ngalula was also present.
For the Sky reporter, the return sends an important signal: “I think this is, of course, very good and very positive news for everyone—and especially for FC Bayern—that the head coach is back.”
FC Bayern has since officially confirmed that Kompany is back at the training facility, where he is completing his rehab program for his injured shoulder.
Kompany’s comeback against Cologne is on the horizon
Particularly encouraging from Munich’s perspective: Kompany could be back on the sidelines as early as the next Bundesliga match. “That’s why we’re leaning toward—and strongly assuming—that he’ll be back on the sidelines for the home game at the Allianz Arena against 1. FC Köln,” Hoffmann explained.
On November 20, the German record champions will host Cologne at the Allianz Arena. However, there has been no official confirmation of Kompany’s return to the bench.
In his absence, Aaron Danks had taken charge of the team. Among other achievements, the Englishman led Bayern to an impressive 2-0 away win at Atlético Madrid.
Kerry Hau expressly praised the work of the entire coaching staff, but at the same time emphasized the special importance of the head coach: “Still, of course, it’s Kompany, and his pep talk is in a league of its own.”
For the Munich team, their coach’s return comes at an opportune time. Thanks to the current international break, Kompany can continue his recovery before the intense schedule of matches resumes.