Kompany rejects World Cup TV pundit role

FC Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has turned down multiple offers to work as a television pundit during the upcoming World Cup, saying he would rather rest and spend time with his family.

The Belgian coach reportedly attracted interest from several English broadcasters ahead of the tournament to be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, Kompany made it clear he was not interested in taking up the role.

“No chance, no chance,” he said, interrupting a question on the reports before it was fully asked.

“What am I supposed to do, work as a TV pundit on holiday? I won’t have a family left in Munich next year,” he said during a press conference ahead of Wednesday’s cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen.

He repeated the point in a lighter mood, adding: “Why should I work as a TV pundit while I’m on holiday? Then I won’t have a family left in Munich next year,” drawing laughter from those present.

Reports by journalist Mike Keegan said the interest from English media was partly linked to Kompany’s close work with England striker Harry Kane at Bayern Munich.

Despite previously working as a pundit for major networks, the former defender has chosen not to mix work with his holiday after a demanding season.

Fresh from winning their 35th Bundesliga title, Bayern Munich are now focused on the DFB-Pokal, where they will face Bayer Leverkusen in a crucial semi-final clash.

A win would send the German giants into their first cup final since 2020.

However, Kompany will be without injured trio Serge Gnabry, Lennart Karl and Tom Bischof for the encounter.

Attention has now turned to Jamal Musiala, who is nearing full fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Kompany expressed confidence in the midfielder’s progress, saying Musiala is “in good form” and “very close to his best level.”

Bayern are also preparing for a heavyweight UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled for April 28 and May 6.

With Gnabry unavailable, Musiala is expected to play a key role again after his strong influence in the quarter-final against Real Madrid.

In that match, the young star came off the bench, won a booking for Eduardo Camavinga with a brilliant run, and later provided the assist for Bayern’s late equaliser that sealed qualification.