Vincent Kompany dismisses Real Madrid ‘remontada’ myth ahead of Champions League showdown

Bayern take a 2-1 lead into the return fixture after a first-leg win in Madrid, where they produced a strong opening display before being pushed back late in the game. Despite that, Kompany has rejected suggestions that Madrid's "remontada" narrative carries any special weight.

"Those stories are not real," he said when addressing Madrid's history of dramatic European turnarounds, adding that similar comeback moments exist across several top clubs in Europe.

He expanded on that point by referencing other sides with similar histories: "I don't see 'remontada stories' as unique. They are stories of other clubs, such as Barcelona, Liverpool and Bayern Munich."

While challenging the mythology, Kompany also insisted Bayern are fully aware of the challenge Madrid present. He stressed respect for the Spanish side and warned against underestimating their quality despite inconsistent recent results.

"One of the key things, no doubt, is that we have a great deal of respect for Real," he said. "We're preparing for the best version of Real, which is what we saw against Manchester City. Their recent results don't reflect the talent they possess. They're still one of the best teams in Europe."

Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has leaned heavily on the club's history ahead of the second leg, pointing to their 15 European Cups and insisting a comeback would be part of the club's identity rather than something extraordinary.

"We are the team that never gives up and the one with 15 European Cups," Arbeloa said, reinforcing belief within the Madrid camp.

Kompany, however, insists Bayern are equally capable of handling high-pressure European nights, drawing on his own experience as a player in similar situations.

"When we lost to Inter and travelled to Milan, we were 100 percent certain we could win. Real feel the same now," he said, acknowledging the mentality Madrid will bring to the tie.

He added that Bayern's focus must remain on execution rather than narrative. "I believe in Real Madrid when they think they can make a comeback, but I want to win. Nothing will affect me before the match."

On the first leg, Kompany felt Bayern could have done more to extend their advantage after taking control early on.

"We could have scored more goals in the first leg, not just Real Madrid," he said, noting that Madrid's improved second-half performance may give them confidence heading into the return match.

Despite that, he believes Bayern also have another level to reach at home. "Winning at the Bernabeu gives you that confidence, but now you have to prove it at the Allianz Arena," he said. "With their quality, their speed, they can be very dangerous."

There was also positive news for Bayern ahead of the clash, with both Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala in contention to feature, boosting their attacking options for the decisive second leg.

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