Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has heaped praise on Bundesliga rivals Freiburg, calling the Black Forest club a "really good example" for teams looking to punch above their weight in European football.
Kompany's comments come after Freiburg achieved something even his star-studded Bayern side couldn't manage this season: reaching a European final. The underdogs overcame Braga in Thursday's semi-final to book their spot in the Europa League final against Aston Villa on May 20 in Istanbul. Meanwhile, Bayern fell to holders Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals the day before.
"What Freiburg are managing to do is a really good example for many clubs," Kompany told reporters ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga trip to Wolfsburg. "It's everything that is positive in football. Such a small club building itself up with its own resources. There is a philosophy, a vision."
The contrast between the two clubs couldn't be starker. Bayern Munich are giants of the game, boasting multiple Champions League titles and a seemingly endless supply of talent and resources. Freiburg, on the other hand, have never won a major trophy and operate on a fraction of Bayern's budget. But through clever recruiting, a passionate fanbase, and a new stadium, they've transformed themselves into a genuine force in German football.
Kompany even revealed he'll be cheering for Freiburg in the final. "For the sake of German football, we hope they also win the trophy," he said. A victory would not only secure Freiburg's first-ever piece of silverware but also earn them a spot in next season's Champions League alongside already-crowned Bundesliga champions Bayern and three other German clubs.
While Bayern have little left to play for in the league, Saturday's hosts Wolfsburg are fighting for survival, desperate for points to avoid automatic relegation. Kompany may rotate his squad with an eye on the German Cup final against VfB Stuttgart on May 23, having already rested key players around the PSG legs.
For neutral fans and those who love a good underdog story, Freiburg's run to the Europa League final is a reminder that in football, heart and smart management can still compete with the biggest budgets.