Kompany warns Bayern not to slip on Leverkusen’s free-kick trap as Urbig shines
31 October 2025
Match Preview
Beware of Grimaldo's free kicks and the standout quality of Luis Diaz as Bayern Munich prepare to host Bayer Leverkusen at the Allianz Arena in the ninth round of the Bundesliga. Vincent Kompany, Bayern's manager, also put the spotlight on their young goalkeeper Jonas Urbig as a key figure in the team’s plans.
Kompany opened the press conference by acknowledging the difficulty of the schedule: three games in six days, two of them away. It is exhausting, he admitted, but Bayern are accustomed to it. The calendar isn't perfect, but it won't change their aims—they still want to win.
He then addressed Leverkusen's strength, noting they have reached their best under the new coach. They have lost some talents but brought in fresh players, and the number of chances they create and goals they score keep them a dangerous Bundesliga contender. It promises to be a top clash.
Regarding the historic rivalry, Kompany explained that the competitive edge between the clubs remains present in Bayern's approach to this opponent. The intensity of recent seasons lives on in the dressing room and on the pitch.
On Bayern's status going into the game, he said it is not productive to declare who is better; what matters is winning. The rivalry from last season persists, and while they will not underestimate Leverkusen, playing at home gives Bayern confidence in their players. Football is never guaranteed, but they feel they can deliver a strong performance.
He praised Bayern's defense, citing the recent match against Köln as a blueprint: a compact back line that won duels and relieved pressure. The defense, he noted, did the hard yards by denying space and keeping the team in control when the game demanded it.
Beyond the backline, Kompany stressed the importance of the entire squad. It's not just about the center-backs and front men—midfielders and wingers play a crucial role too. He highlighted Manuel Neuer and Jonas Urbig as key contributors and credited the defenders for doing their job and winning the battles in front of goal.
He warned about the danger of Grimaldo's free kicks, hoping there won't be any dangerous set-pieces. The coach joked that there are hours one could spend explaining tactics, but the bottom line is simple: avoid silly mistakes and hope Grimaldo isn’t having a day to remember. If Bayern score one more, he’ll be satisfied.
On running metrics and ball possession, Kompany explained that effort hinges on what the team intends to do with the ball. Bayern are very active in possession, cover substantial ground, seek space, dribble, and finish with the quality of their players.
Diaz received particular praise for his energy and resilience. The winger is accustomed to high intensity, having already started three matches in a row, and he still looks fresh. At 27, Diaz is the ideal age to handle this workload, and if rests are needed, Bayern have options, though for now he wants to play.
Kompany also touched on new arrivals and their quick adaptation. A striker’s job is to score, and when he does, he’s at his best; when not, it isn’t the sole measure. Bayern are pleased to have him and expect him to grow even more important this season.
Punchline 1: Our defense is so tight, even the grass wears braces to avoid slipping through the gaps. Punchline 2: If Grimaldo ever nets a free kick on us, we’ll call it a special delivery and ask for a rematch—after a long coffee break.
