Kompany hails Bayern record numbers as focus turns to Leipzig clash

By SABC Sport
15th January 2026

Vincent Kompany praised his Bayern Munich players after their 3-1 win over FC Koln sealed a record-breaking first half of the Bundesliga season, but the coach was quick to stress that the real work was still to come.

Bayern Munich's goals in their win against Koln were scored by Serge Gnabry, Kim Min-jae, and Lennart Karl. Koln initially took the lead through Linton Maina.

The victory on Wednesday night ensured Bayern collected 47 points with a plus 53 goal difference after 17 league games, the strongest first-half return in the club's Bundesliga history. That surpassed the previous benchmark set under Pep Guardiola in the 2013-14 season, when Bayern reached 47 points with a plus 35 goal difference.

Despite the historic numbers, Kompany played down the significance of the record, insisting it was not something to celebrate for long. "It's difficult to say because this contradicts my mentality a bit," Kompany said. "It's not a title. But I told the boys the record they achieved is incredible, because it's the players who did it."

He added: "From tomorrow the second half of the season starts, and everything starts from zero again. I'm not used to celebrating records, but I congratulated the boys."

Kompany also provided updates on several players who picked up knocks during the match at the RhineEnergie Stadion. Konrad Laimer was the main concern after feeling discomfort late on. "Konny felt something in his calf. We have to wait. We'll be back in Munich tomorrow and he'll have a scan," Kompany explained.

There was better news regarding Harry Kane and Hiroki Ito, who both managed to finish the game. "The others were able to play through," Kompany said.

With a busy schedule ahead, the Bayern coach highlighted the importance of squad depth. "We have many games in a short period coming up. Hopefully Jamal Musiala and Phonzy Davies will be back soon. And hopefully Konny is fine."

Bayern will now turn their attention to a major Bundesliga clash next Saturday evening, when they host third-placed RB Leipzig, a match that could set the tone for the second half of the title race.