Kompany Warns Dortmund Star, Celebrates Kane's Killer Instinct Ahead of Der Klassiker
17 October 2025
Der Klassiker Preview
Vincent Kompany, Bayern Munich's coach, talked about his team's preparations to host Borussia Dortmund on Saturday at the Allianz Arena in the Der Klassiker, the headline clash of the Bundesliga's seventh round.
In the press conference he said all players had returned from the international break in good shape, while Rafael Guerreiro picked up a minor knock against Frankfurt and would train today; Josip Stanisic remains out.
On Alphonso Davies, he noted that the medical staff and Davies are working well together, and while a January return would be ideal, the exact timing will depend on how his body responds to the weekly load.
Kompany expressed enthusiasm for the match, noting Dortmund's current form and the fact that neither side had tasted defeat yet, making the derby a true test of momentum and resolve.
He highlighted Serhou Guirassy's threat, saying Dortmund possess a solid spine with experienced players in defense and midfield and can hurt opponents in transitions and from set pieces.
Responding to Dortmund's remark about being one fist, Kompany smiled that both teams are fists when they have not been beaten, adding that both sides had just returned from the Club World Cup and the preseason was short for both.
On Kane, he praised the striker for his self driven hunger, noting that Kane has raised his level almost every season and that this mentality raises the whole squad.
He stressed there is no extra pressure if Kane does not hit peak form every game, because teammates will compensate and the trust in the squad remains strong.
Kompany also talked about Kane's fitness after the break, saying there is no risk and that he is being managed carefully to fit the weekly workload.
Sports director Max Eberl commented on the teams cohesion, saying signing Vincent Kompany was a stroke of luck and that the core has bonded over 17 months, especially after the Club World Cup.
Eberl noted that the core has worked together for 17 months and shown energy, desire to win, and aim to score, something the coaching staff has fostered since day one.
He also questioned the viability of a German under 21 reserve league and argued youth development should be nurtured in the national context, drawing inspiration from England's model which is currently under review.
Looking ahead he said German football must consider how to fit youth players into a crowded calendar including U19 and academy competitions.
Kompany concluded that Bayern will push on after the international break and are ready for the match, hoping for a strong display and a positive result for the home fans.
Punchline 1: If this derby ends in a stalemate, expect the postmatch analysis to be longer than the game itself. Punchline 2: Kane s hunger is so real that even my coffee needs a warm up before I try to keep up with him.
