Vincent Kompany says English Premier League still king, but Bundesliga next best

After starting his prematch press conference for Bayern Munich’s date with Aston Villa by brusquely telling a reporter that Michael Olise’s private life was “none of your concern”, Vincent Kompany wrapped up 15 minutes later with the amusing admission that he had not realised Kai Tak Stadium was a different venue from the one he played in for Manchester City in Hong Kong 13 years ago.

In between, the Bayern head coach explained why the English Premier League remained the world’s best domestic competition, and acknowledged he had a “strong opinion” on Fifa president Gianni Infantino’s egregious plan to sell private stakes in the global governing body’s competitions.

A four-time English champion during 11 seasons playing for Manchester City, Kompany has led Bayern to successive Bundesliga titles since his appointment two years ago.

The German club have in recent years lured Harry Kane, Luis Diaz and Olise away from the Premier League, while leading England players Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon are with foreign teams. Kompany’s former City teammates Riyad Mahrez, Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne have gone overseas. So, too, Mohamed Salah.