It is very clear that Bayern Munich’s players and executives have a great appreciation for head coach Vincent Kompany.

The club threw a surprise party for the manager on Friday to celebrate his 40th birthday, but prior to that, CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen gave a speech to honor Kompany.

“Vincent Kompany is a tremendous asset to FC Bayern – as a coach and as a person. He has brought back the fun and joy of the game, he makes every player better, and our players trust him. Vincent always sees the person, not just the player. He never puts himself first, but always the team. With his personality, his expertise, and his natural authority, he has quickly earned great respect throughout Europe,” Kompany said (as captured by Tz’s Hanna Raif via @iMiaSanMia). “Vincent emphasizes that he wants a team with the ‘power of a hurricane’. For me, he is the eye of the storm. The calm he exudes helps the team even in difficult phases. He has forged a team that can achieve big things – and he enjoys great respect throughout the entire club.

“Dear Vincent, on behalf of everyone at FC Bayern, I wish you all the best for your 40th birthday, good health, and continued success for us all. We are very happy and proud that you are part of our Bayern family.”

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