News Focus
- Vincent Kompany prepares for his first German Cup final since taking charge of Bayern Munich
- Young goalkeeper Jonas Urbig replaces injured Manuel Neuer for the Stuttgart clash
- Club captain Joshua Kimmich vows the team will fight to win their first DFB-Pokal since 2020
- Kimmich stresses that team harmony matters as much as winning silverware
Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has shared his excitement ahead of the DFB-Pokal final against Stuttgart. The Belgian will take charge of his first German Cup final at the weekend.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Kompany recalled his previous success in major domestic finals. He lifted the FA Cup with Manchester City after that club had waited four decades for the trophy.
“Victory in these matches creates history,” Kompany stated. “Stuttgart managed this achievement last season. Our players have focused on this competition since pre-season began.”
The former defender stressed how much the Munich giants respect the tournament. He declared that the squad is determined to return the trophy to Bavaria after a five-year absence.
Kompany also confirmed that Jonas Urbig will start between the posts. The young keeper replaces Manuel Neuer, who is unavailable through injury.
“We possess excellent depth in the goalkeeping department,” the coach explained. “Our keepers support each other well. Jonas has already faced Stuttgart twice this season. We showed faith in him against Leverkusen in the Champions League. We show the same faith now.”
Kompany insisted that responsibility rests with senior figures rather than the rookie goalkeeper. “The pressure sits with experienced leaders like Joshua Kimmich and myself,” he added.
Club captain Kimmich joined his manager at the briefing. The midfielder last won this trophy with Bayern in 2020.
“Outside observers only see the medals,” Kimmich observed. “But inside the dressing room, we recognise the consistent high standards we maintain week after week.”
The Germany international promised complete commitment from every player. “We will battle for every ball on the pitch,” he said. “However, one match does not define our entire season.”
Kimmich praised the positive atmosphere within the squad this campaign. “The players look forward to training each day. This spirit drives our improvement,” he explained.
“Trophies matter when you reflect on your career in ten years. Yet true success also includes how we grow together as a team. We cannot control every result, but we control our effort and attitude,” Kimmich concluded.