Vincent Kompany a doubt for Bayern Munich vs Arsenal with virus affecting his legs

Vincent Kompany may not be on the Bayern Munich bench for Wednesday night’s Champions League clash against Arsenal at the Allianz Arena. The Belgian coach is fighting a debilitating virus that has particularly affected his legs, to the point that he missed Tuesday’s training session and handed pre-match press conference duties to his assistant, Aaron Danks. His availability remains uncertain and a final call will be made close to kick-off.

The virus that has attacked Vincent Kompany’s legs

Kompany’s physical problems date back to the weekend. The coach pushed through the discomfort during Bayern’s 6-1 Bundesliga win over RB Leipzig, after which sporting director Max Eberl spoke to the media in his place. Reports in Germany have suggested the manager needed to lie down on his sofa once he got home and that the viral infection worsened an existing hip issue that left him barely able to walk.

Aaron Danks, Bayern Munich’s plan B against Arsenal

If Kompany is not ready in time, Aaron Danks will take charge of the team, just as he did last season during the Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. On that occasion Bayern lost 5-4 at the Parc des Princes and were knocked out 6-5 on aggregate, before PSG lost the final to Arsenal on penalties. Danks, born in Birmingham, had a brief spell as caretaker boss of Aston Villa in 2022 and has coached at Anderlecht and Middlesbrough.

Kompany forced to rest against his own instincts

The biggest challenge for Bayern’s medical staff is convincing Kompany that he needs rest. Danks admitted that getting the Belgian to stay still is difficult because of his competitive personality and constant leadership. The specialist recommendation is clear: rest and time to recover, without rushing the process.

It has affected his legs at times. He’s felt some pain in his legs. I’m not sure about the reports about him lying down on the couch. I think we can all have a lie down on the couch after a game. It’s just a virus. The doctors and experts know way more than I do. The most important thing we have encouraged is that he rests and takes the time he needs.

What Bayern Munich have at stake against Arsenal

The Allianz Arena hosts a demanding tie between two of the strongest sides on the continent. For Bayern, making home advantage count is essential in a knockout round where the smallest details can prove decisive. Missing their head coach from the touchline would add an extra complication, although the match plan and tactical preparation are already in place.

Keeping in touch with Kompany if he cannot reach the stadium

Danks said that if Kompany is unable to get to the Allianz Arena, he will stay in contact with him in some shape or form. The plan is for the Belgian coach to follow decisions closely from a distance, within a coaching staff used to sharing responsibilities when the boss is absent.