Eberl reveals Kompany was always top of Bayern's list, rules out Jackson move
Bayern Munich's sporting director, Max Eberl, has revealed that Vincent Kompany was always a leading candidate for the club's vacant managerial position and confirmed the club will not sign Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson permanently. Speaking in an interview with ZDF, Eberl detailed the process that led to the surprise appointment of the former Burnley boss, while also providing updates on several key squad members.
Eberl explained that Bayern held talks with several high-profile candidates, including Julian Nagelsmann, Ralf Rangnick, and Oliver Glasner, with some internal voices advocating for a return for Hansi Flick. However, Kompany's name remained a constant. "Kompany was always on the list. I didn’t dare approach Vincent first," Eberl said. The decisive move came after Eberl asked club icon Karl-Heinz Rummenigge to call Pep Guardiola, Kompany's former manager at Manchester City. "That was the door opener. Then we signed him," Eberl confirmed, adding that they received "positive feedback" about Kompany from Guardiola.
The appointment of Kompany, who could not prevent Burnley's relegation from the Premier League last season, represents a significant gamble for the German record champions. Bayern moved for the 38-year-old Belgian after several other targets turned down the role, seeking a fresh project after a trophyless campaign. Kompany's reputation for a clear, possession-based philosophy, forged under Guardiola and implemented at Anderlecht and Burnley, ultimately convinced the Bayern hierarchy to make the appointment.
Shifting focus to the squad, Eberl provided clarity on two other matters. He definitively ruled out making Nicolas Jackson's loan move from Chelsea permanent. "We will not trigger the option for Nicolas Jackson," he stated. The Senegalese striker joined on a short-term deal in January to provide cover but is now set to return to his parent club. Eberl also offered strong support for Michael Olise, the French winger signed from Crystal Palace last summer. "For us, there is not a second of thinking about it [selling Olise this summer]. He is developing excellently," Eberl said.
Regarding veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, whose contract expires this summer, Eberl struck a respectful tone, leaving the decision in the player's hands. "He is a legend. We will sit down and talk calmly. If Manuel feels ready for it, I wouldn’t know what would speak against him doing it for one more year," the sporting director said. Finally, Eberl reflected on his own challenging start in the role, admitting the intense scrutiny was overwhelming. "I was under the microscope. At one point, I would have liked a bit more protection. But I know how big Bayern are. You cannot prepare yourself for Bayern. You have to dive straight in," he concluded.
