Vincent Kompany: Bayern Eager to Redeem Themselves Against Dortmund in Klassiker Showdown

Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich are brimming with motivation as they prepare for the Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund this Saturday, according to head coach Vincent Kompany, who confirmed that his side is eager to rebound after a recent midweek Champions League defeat.

Bayern are keen to deliver an immediate response to their 2-1 loss at home to Inter Milan in the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday, aiming to head into next week’s second leg with renewed confidence, the coach noted.

“It (the setback against Inter) doesn’t feel like a defeat because our determination and belief are immense heading into the return leg,” Kompany remarked during a press conference. “However, on Saturday, we aim to make a statement. This is the Klassiker, and there’s a rich history between our two clubs.”

“We are certainly not lacking motivation or energy for this encounter. I also relish the fact that these matches against Dortmund carry that extra intensity,” he added.

Bayern currently tops the Bundesliga table with 68 points, sitting six points ahead of defending champions Bayer Leverkusen in second, with just six fixtures remaining, making any slip potentially expensive.

Dortmund, who were defeated 4-0 by Barcelona in their own quarter-final first leg on Wednesday, find themselves in eighth position with 41 points and face the risk of missing out on Champions League participation next season.

“We are in a crucial phase of the season where every moment counts. Every minute is significant,” Kompany stated. “Thus, every match is a top priority.”

The Belgian coach, in his first season at the helm, is without several key players due to injury, including playmaker Jamal Musiala and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. He asserted that their absence will not hinder the squad’s resolve to bounce back.

“We always strive for victory, but it’s premature to label our result against Inter as deeply negative,” Kompany explained.

“Ultimately, it comes down to winners and losers, but our squad’s belief remains strong despite the injuries, and that spirit will carry into tomorrow’s match against Dortmund.”