Kovac speaks out on the demands of coaching following Kompany’s collapse

Following Vincent Kompany's recent collapse, Niko Kovac has spoken about the immense pressure that comes with being a football coach.

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Vincent Kompany is recovering after being hospitalised following a sudden collapse at Bayern Munich’s training ground last week, forcing the Belgian to take a temporary break from his coaching duties.

While Bayern have yet to announce an exact diagnosis, reports have suggested that Kompany’s demanding work schedule and lack of sleep may have contributed to the incident. The Bayern boss is known for his meticulous approach, often working late and prioritising his job over rest.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac addressed his colleague’s absence and reflected on the immense pressure that comes with coaching a top-level football club.

“You take pretty much everything home with you. None of us can say that we close our office door, get in the car and leave everything behind. You think about things and consider how you can do better. You can’t switch that off,” Kovac said.

“There is enormous stress when you are fighting relegation. When you are at the top, you are expected to win practically everything, which is almost impossible. It is a very, very demanding profession, and one that is certainly intensified by outside pressures,” he added.

Kovac had already sent his best wishes to Kompany over the weekend, telling Sky:

“Like all football fans, I wish him nothing but the best. I hope he recovers quickly and returns to the touchline soon. What matters most at this stage is giving him peace and quiet, because he needs time.

“We all know how demanding a coaching job can be, so I genuinely wish him all the very best,” he added.