Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has offered significant commendation to fellow Bundesliga club SC Freiburg for their historic qualification to the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League final. Kompany's remarks, made in the wake of Freiburg's aggregate victory over Braga and Bayern's own Champions League semi-final exit, frame the club's achievement as a vital boost for German football.
Freiburg's success is framed as a testament to organic growth and sound management, providing a model for other clubs in the league. This perspective highlights the club's journey, built "using its own resources," as a source of considerable pride.
A Model for Self-Sufficiency
Kompany pointed to Freiburg's consistent strategic direction over several seasons as integral to their current success. He acknowledged the contributions of Julian Schuster, the current coach who took over in 2024, but stressed that the achievement transcends any single individual. The praise extends to Schuster's predecessor, Christian Streich, and the broader club hierarchy responsible for player decisions. This suggests a deep appreciation for a sustained, collective effort.
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The Sole German Standard-Bearer
With Bayern Munich eliminated from the Champions League, SC Freiburg now stands as the only German team competing in a major European final this season. This singular position underscores the significance of their accomplishment, marking it as the greatest success in the club's history. Kompany expressed hope that Freiburg will bring the trophy home, further amplifying the perceived benefit to German football as a whole.
Historical Context and Coaching Acclaim
Freiburg’s path to the final involved overcoming a deficit against Braga, a dramatic comeback that saw them secure a 4-3 aggregate win. This achievement marks their first-ever European final appearance. Kompany, while navigating his own team's recent European disappointment, lauded Freiburg's performance, describing their approach as "everything that is positive in football" and a "really good example for many clubs."
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It is worth noting that Kompany himself experienced a recent domestic fixture where Bayern Munich, despite trailing significantly, managed a comeback victory against SC Freiburg. While the details of that match are separate from his comments on their European success, the context of playing against them in the league adds another layer to his observations on their capabilities.
