Vincent Kompany ‘annoyed’ Bayern Munich youngster in ‘truly crazy’ start at Bundesliga side as ‘rare’ Belgian coach brings control and fun to the team

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Bayern Munich's young midfielder Tom Bischof admitted his first few weeks under manager Vincent Kompany were 'truly crazy.' The 20-year-old German, who joined the club in the summer, said he was 'annoyed' by how demanding his new coach was at first, but now sees that constant push as one of the main reasons behind his quick growth.

Bischof's breakthrough under Kompany

The 20-year-old joined Bayern on a free transfer from Hoffenheim this summer. After missing the start of the season due to appendicitis, Bischof made his first Bundesliga start on September 26, registering an assist for Konrad Laimer’s late goal in Bayern’s 4-0 win over Werder Bremen. Since then, he has made seven appearances for the club and is steadily earning Kompany’s trust. 

FC Bayern München v SV Werder Bremen - Bundesliga

Bischof hails Kompany as rare coach who combines control and fun

In an interview with Ran, the German midfielder, who signed a four-year deal with the Bundesliga giants in January, heaped high praise on Kompany and his unique coaching style, describing him as a rare manager who blends strict control with an enjoyable atmosphere. 

"I've rarely seen a coach who has the team so under control and, at the same time, brings so much fun to training sessions and the team as he does. The first three weeks were truly crazy," he said. "He told me something about practically every move. I almost thought: 'Please, that's enough.' I was annoyed, but I have to say that, looking back, it's helped me tremendously. I constantly think of his words in my actions. Run after them, always keep up! He drilled that into my head. And it's stuck there forever."

German youngster says Bayern’s winning mentality was key factor behind move

Bischof said his move to Munich was a deliberate decision despite knowing the level of competition that awaited him. "I'm a guy who likes challenges. And I've often said that the identity of Bayern Munich suits me. I'm a winner. When you go to the training ground, you just notice that the lads want to win; they fight for every ball. All of that suits me, and I'm keen to assert myself."

He also credited several senior teammates for helping him settle in. 

"Of course, I also learn from Jo [Kimmich], because he's one of the best in his position. But I could name so many. Jonathan Tah, Leon Goretzka, Aleks Pavlovic, Serge Gnabry, Harry Kane, Michael Olise – they all keep an eye on me, take me by the hand, and give me tips. That gives me a lot of confidence on the pitch."

What's next for Bayern and Bischof?

Bayern have been in unstoppable form under Kompany, winning all 10 of their matches this season. Meanwhile, Bischof, who also featured for Germany’s senior national team in the Nations League this year, will be seen in action for the Under-21 side against Greece in Friday’s European Championship qualifier.