Bayern’s Kompany Shrugs Off Fixture Congestion Worries Before Leverkusen Showdown

Bayern Munich, the current Bundesliga leaders, are set to face Bayer Leverkusen in a crucial match on Saturday, and manager Vincent Kompany (38) insists that their hectic fixture schedule will not negatively impact their performance.

The Bavarians secured a 2-1 victory over Celtic in Glasgow on Wednesday, marking the first leg of their Champions League play-off for a place in the Round of 16. Just three days later, they will travel to Leverkusen for their league clash before the return leg on Tuesday.

“While the busy schedule shouldn’t affect us, it can sometimes have an impact,” Kompany stated during a press conference. “We’re accustomed to this sort of situation, and our mindset is in the right place.

“Our squad is well-equipped for the demands, and currently, there are almost no injuries to contend with. That’s why we won’t say this match isn’t occurring at the right time.”

With Bayern sitting on 54 points, eight ahead of second-placed Leverkusen, a win would establish an 11-point gap with 12 league fixtures still to play.

On the other hand, Leverkusen comes into the match somewhat refreshed, having qualified automatically for the Champions League’s Round of 16 thanks to their top-eight finish in the league phase, thus avoiding the need for a playoff.

“This match is highly anticipated. Over the last 18 months, they’ve lost only once in the league, demonstrating their strong performance. We aim to be one of the teams to triumph there,” he commented.

Last season, Leverkusen achieved a league and German Cup double without a single defeat, and they have only lost once in the Bundesliga this season.

“You can never be completely certain what to expect from Leverkusen. We understand that the intensity and quality will be high,” Kompany remarked. “Our goal is to secure a victory, and if we achieve that, it’ll make for a great weekend.”