Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has thrown his weight behind DR Congo ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Kompany described the tournament as a defining stage for African footballers and a competition that deserves full respect from clubs across Europe.
AFCON 2025 is set to begin on December 21 in Morocco, and Kompany made it clear that Bayern Munich will fully support their players called up for international duty. His backing of DR Congo, however, goes beyond professional courtesy and is rooted in personal history.
“My father, Pierre, is Congolese and has invested in projects providing education and safe accommodation for children living in poverty. Congo is part of my heritage, and I naturally support them in this tournament,” Kompany said.
The former Belgium captain also confirmed that Senegalese forward Nicolas Jackson would link up with his national team after Bayern’s Bundesliga 2-2 draw with Mainz on Sunday, December 14.
“My information is that Jackson will leave with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations after the match against Mainz. We hope he goes as far as possible,” Kompany said.
While pledging his loyalty to DR Congo, the Bayern boss was quick to wish Jackson and Senegal well should his favoured side fall short.
“If Congo will not win, I wish him [Jackson] all the best,” he said. “For African players, the importance of this competition should never be underestimated.”
Kompany also took time to commend Jackson’s impact at Bayern Munich, even as he continues to compete for minutes in a squad led by prolific striker Harry Kane.
“I have a very positive impression of Nicolas. He’s helped us a lot, his goals-per-minute ratio is good. With Harry Kane up front, there’s competition, but it’s a luxury to see how Nicolas is handling that. What many people don’t see is what he does in training and every time he comes on. Hopefully, he’ll continue to capitalise on the chances he gets,” Kompany added.
