Vincent Kompany ‘impressed’ by Burnley vision as Man City legend appointed at Turf Moor

Burnley have announced the appointment of Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany as their new first-team manager.

The former Belgium international arrives at Turf Moor as the long-term successor to Sean Dyche, who was sacked on April 15. U23s coach Mike Jackson replaced Dyche temporarily but couldn’t steer Burnley away from relegation, as they finished 18th in the Premier League.

Reports have put Kompany in the mix for the Burnley job for weeks and the move has now been confirmed.

The 36-year-old, who won four Premier League titles with City, was most recently in charge of Belgian side Anderlecht.

During the 2021-22 campaign, Kompany took Anderlecht to third in the Jupiler Pro League as well as the Belgian Cup final.

He left the club towards the end of May to begin a new chapter in his coaching career. And his main aim at Turf Moor will be to take Burnley back into the top flight.

During an interview with club media, Kompany revealed he is ‘impressed’ by the board’s vision. “Burnley Football Club is a truly historic English side and it is an honour to be appointed first-team manager,” he said. “I’m excited by the challenge ahead.

“I’m looking forward to getting to work with the players and creating a positive, winning team for our fans when we return to Turf Moor.

Vincent Kompany ‘looking forward’ to new role

“I’ve been impressed by the Board’s vision for the club which aligns with my own and I look forward to playing my part as we enter an important season.”

Burnley chairman Alan Pace added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Vincent to Burnley Football Club.

“Vincent is a proven leader and I’ve been very impressed with his ideas for Burnley Football Club, his appetite to succeed and his focus on leading the Club back to the Premier League.

“Vincent has shown impressive credentials in leading one of Belgium’s biggest teams back to European football and a Cup Final last season. We’ve been excited by his philosophy, approach and ambition for the Club.”

It is an intriguing appointment by Burnley, given the fact Kompany has never coached outside of his native Belgium.

The former centre-back will also need to adapt to life in the Championship quickly. Burnley will want an immediate return to the Prem.

But Kompany’s playing experience with City should stand him in good stead. He is a proven winner who has great leadership skills and speaks very good English, which can only help.