Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has expressed that his squad will commence the new Bundesliga season with “almost no preparation” due to their involvement in the Club World Cup. However, he also acknowledged some positive aspects of participating in the tournament.
The expanded FIFA competition taking place in the United States this summer, concluding on July 13, will leave the participating teams with limited time for rest and recovery prior to the 2025-26 season.
Beyond the substantial prize pool of $1 billion at stake, Kompany highlighted the advantages of the German club training together abroad for several weeks.
“There are two sides to this discussion,” Kompany stated at a press conference on Monday.
“On one hand, we can build team cohesion and spend valuable time together. This could facilitate quicker integration for new players like Jonathan Tah and Tom Bischof, as well as others who have recently joined us…”
“Conversely, there is a valid concern that we will have nearly no preparation time for the upcoming season.”
Kompany emphasised that the team won’t be able to follow their usual pre-season conditioning routine.
“When you consider all the scientific research on optimal preparation for a new season, it feels as though we are discarding the traditional approach and jumping straight into the season, with the added pressure to win every match,” he remarked.
Kompany likened the tournament to international events such as the World Cup and European Championships, wherein players unite as a group.
However, he noted that unlike international football, they can focus on higher-level concepts since players are not merely getting acquainted.
“There are benefits to this approach as well; we are fine-tuning details, whereas national teams often concentrate on fundamentals,” he added. “It’s a compelling experience.”
Bayern, who emphatically defeated Auckland City from New Zealand 10-0 in their opening match and later secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Boca Juniors, are set to face Benfica in Charlotte on Tuesday.
The Bundesliga champions have already secured their spot in the next round but aim to clinch the top position in Group C while in Charlotte.
With soaring temperatures across the United States, the match, kicking off at 3:00 PM local time, will unfold under a blazing sun.
“The heat will undoubtedly play a significant role tomorrow; it’s going to be very warm,” Kompany acknowledged.
“While it may affect the game, it presents the same challenge for both teams, which is only fair.”
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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