Kompany explains bold rotation against Leverkusen

Vincent Kompany has explained his decision to rest stars such as Harry Kane, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise against Bayer Leverkusen.

Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

In a surprising move, Vincent Kompany made seven changes to his starting lineup for Bayern Munich’s 3–0 Bundesliga victory over Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, resting stars such as Harry Kane, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise.

At his post-match press conference, Kompany explained that it felt like “the ideal moment” to rotate, amid a packed schedule and with Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain looming.

“Of course we’re always better when Harry plays and is in top form. But today it felt like the other guys were also ready — and now we have a rested Harry. Everyone always asks me: When does Harry get a break? When does Lucho (Diaz) get a break? Today just felt like the ideal moment,” he said.

He emphasized that the rested stars were fully on board with the decision.

“They are professionals and they all understand. Whether it’s Harry, Díaz or Olise – they know the situation we’re in.”

Kompany admitted that making so many changes carried risks, which made it all the more satisfying that the plan paid off.

“Many thought something could go wrong today. The opponent probably thought that too. But for me, the important thing was to attack it with fire. Go full tempo – and we did that in the first half. It’s sometimes dangerous, but at some point, you have to do it, otherwise you don’t need to build a squad.”