Two head coaches with equal authority on the sidelines? While this seems almost unimaginable at FC Bayern, it has long been the norm for their upcoming Champions League opponent, Viking Stavanger. The Norwegians have been operating with a dual-head coaching structure for several years. Ahead of the head-to-head matchup, Vincent Kompany was therefore asked whether he could envision such a model at the German record champions.
The Bayern coach’s response was quite surprising. Kompany has already gained experience with a similar setup himself and sees definite advantages in it.
Sports director Max Eberl, on the other hand, was less enthusiastic about the idea for FC Bayern.
Kompany is familiar with the model from his time at Anderlecht
At Viking Stavanger, Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim and Morten Jensen have shared responsibility as co-head coaches with equal authority since January 2021. Previously, both had worked as assistants at the Norwegian club.
An unusual arrangement that appears to be working very well.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany is also familiar with a similar arrangement from his time at RSC Anderlecht. “I experienced exactly that at Anderlecht. We shared an office, watched videos, and exchanged ideas. And at the same time, I was even still playing—I know what that entails,” the Belgian recalled ahead of the Champions League match in Norway.
Kompany initially returned to Anderlecht as a player-coach in 2019 before later focusing entirely on his role on the sidelines.
For the 40-year-old, the success of such a model depends above all on how well the coaches involved work together. “Sometimes it’s no different at all—if you work well with the coaching staff, then it’s really not that different from this kind of collaboration,” Kompany explained.
Mutual trust and a clear division of responsibilities are crucial, he said.
“You have to invest a lot in these relationships—but it’s absolutely possible,” emphasized the Bayern coach.
Eberl Rejects the Idea of a Dual Coaching Leadership at FC Bayern
Max Eberl was also impressed by how successfully Viking Stavanger operates with its unusual coaching structure. “It seems to be working; otherwise, they wouldn’t have qualified for the Champions League,” explained the sporting director.
The 53-year-old also pointed to the Norwegian club’s on-field progress. “They’re currently tied with Bodø/Glimt for first place in points and goals. They’re in the running for the championship again, so their system seems to be working.”
For FC Bayern, however, a comparable model is currently out of the question.
When asked whether Munich could also envision having two head coaches with equal authority, Eberl replied with a smile: “Probably not.”
With that, the Bayern boss made it clear that, despite their opponent’s positive experiences, he sees no reason to fundamentally change the current coaching structure in Munich.
Bayern faces an unusual Champions League opponent
On the field, the Munich team wants to prove on Tuesday night that their current setup works perfectly.
Following their 5-0 victory over Bodø/Glimt in their Champions League group stage opener, the German record champions are looking to win their second match as well.
Viking Stavanger, on the other hand, suffered a 1-3 defeat to VfB Stuttgart in their opener.
Nevertheless, the Norwegians believe they have a chance playing in front of their home crowd. In particular, the artificial turf and the support of their own fans should help them give the heavy favorites from Munich a run for their money.
“Viking has played big games against Barcelona and Chelsea in the past, but this game is even bigger. We want to enjoy the challenge,” explained head coach Aarsheim.
So while Viking, with its two-man front line, is preparing for one of the biggest nights in the club’s history, everything remains the same at FC Bayern: Vincent Kompany is and remains the sole head coach.