Even though it was sweltering hot inside Burnley’s Gawthorpe media room, Vincent Kompany maintained his composure.
In an effort to guarantee Kompany returned home in time to begin his weekend, more than 25 media outlets—up from the handful of Gawthorpe regulars—were each given three questions when the new Burnley manager fronted the media on Friday for more than an hour.
He made a good first impression as the Burnley manager, and many of the fans watching the live stream posted similar sentiments on social media. The Belgian responded thoughtfully, honestly, and analytically, emphasizing his desire for transparency while taking questions about transfers, club finances, and Manchester City.
Within minutes of meeting the 36-year-old, dressed in what appears to be his characteristic cap, you could see why opposing center-forwards would have been terrified. Aim for the moon and you’ll hit the stars, he said, encouraging young people to reach a high ceiling without feeling pressured to do so if they fall short. However, he had the aura of a gentle giant.
Kompany is undoubtedly a celebrity in his own right, and he exuded an atmosphere that made you believe he belonged in a dressing room. In response to a query about Pep Guardiola, he remarked, “I’ll trust you to make the appropriate headlines, that’s not naive right?! ” He was courteous and warm, open and prepared to go into detail.
