Bayern Munich's preparations for their Champions League match against Arsenal have been clouded by a fitness concern in the dugout. Head coach Vincent Kompany is battling a virus and an existing hip issue, putting his presence on the touchline for Wednesday's top-tier clash at the Allianz Arena in doubt. The key home fixture against the English champions is scheduled for Wednesday 21 October.
Sporting director Max Eberl confirmed the health problems. He said Kompany has been struggling with a virus all week and has been constantly taking vitamins, adding that he really isn't well. The issues already affected Kompany during the weekend's home win over RB Leipzig, where he spent most of the game on the bench relaying instructions through his assistants. The 6-1 victory on Saturday 17 October provided some much-needed momentum after an inconsistent run of just one win, two draws and two defeats in their last five matches. He also had difficulty climbing stairs and used a side exit at halftime.
Contingency plan with Danks
Kompany was forced to miss a training session on Monday. In his absence, assistant coach Aaron Danks took charge of the closed session. The Englishman would also assume tactical leadership if Kompany remains unavailable, supported by Rene Maric and Daniel Fradley. The club remains hopeful, however. Eberl added that he won't let anything stop him from being with the team for as long as he can.
The uncertainty comes during an inconsistent run. Their recent form shows mixed results. The rout of Leipzig provided much-needed momentum but was also marred by the injury to Michael Olise. The attacker, who is the team's top scorer this season with 5 goals in 6 appearances, will definitely miss the Arsenal game. The team must therefore rely on other offensive weapons.
The match against the English champions is key for their European campaign. A Bundesliga trip follows immediately after the Arsenal tie. The medical staff will monitor Kompany's condition right up to kick-off. His last absence from a Champions League match was last season when he was suspended.
The original report is at bavarianfootballworks.com
