Jonathan Tah reveals Vincent Kompany 'convinced' him to choose Bayern Munich

By SABC Sport
29th December 2025

Jonathan Tah has said Vincent Kompany played a decisive role in convincing him to join Bayern Munich, with the defender insisting the move has already helped him grow as a player.

Bayern had tried to sign Tah from Bayer Leverkusen in 2024, but talks broke down after the two clubs failed to agree on a valuation. The transfer was completed in May 2025, with Bayern moving quickly to bring the centre-back into the squad in time for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

Since arriving in Munich, Tah has become a regular under Kompany and has been used as part of the manager's preferred centre-back pairing alongside Dayot Upamecano. The Germany international had made 22 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists. His latest contribution came in Bayern's 4-0 win away at Heidenheim on the final Bundesliga matchday of 2025.

Speaking to AZ, Tah made it clear how important Kompany was to his decision. "Vincent Kompany was a decisive factor in my transfer because he convinced me," Tah said. "I felt that I could grow and improve further under him."

Tah also highlighted Kompany's experience as a defender. "I can learn a lot from him because he was one of the best players in my position during his time," he said. "Above all, he was a true leader, and that is something you feel every day in training."

The 29-year-old explained how Kompany's tactical ideas have helped him settle quickly. "The activity we show when defending, the way we defend together as a team, and what he demands from everyone have helped me a lot," Tah said.

"He also demands a lot from the attacking players and how much they have to get involved."

Tah added that small details have also made a difference. "There are also little things that help you improve, details that I don't want to reveal," he said.

Bayern had previously been prepared to pay between 35 and 40 million euros for Tah before negotiations with Leverkusen collapsed. His eventual arrival without a transfer fee has proven valuable, with Tah now a key part of a well-organised Bayern defence that opponents have found difficult to break down.