Kompany’s Return to Bayern: A Press Conference to Remember

A Familiar Yet Different Environment

The Belgian manager made a comeback to steer Bayern Munich nearly 16 years after he last departed from Germany, demonstrating that his proficiency in the language was still intact.

The Post-Match Press Conference

Following an unexpected defeat in the Bundesliga to Augsburg, Kompany appeared somewhat unfocused during the press conference. It was evident that most journalists were directing their inquiries toward Augsburg’s coach, Manuel Baum, leaving Kompany a bit out of the spotlight. This was particularly noticeable when a reporter posed a question intended for Baum, which Kompany didn’t seem to fully grasp.

Complexity Amidst Disappointment

With Bayern Munich not having faced a loss in the Bundesliga since March 8, 2025, it was reasonable for Kompany to be a bit distracted. Additionally, the reporter’s question comprised multiple parts, complicating the interaction even further.

An Unexpected Question

“Mr. Baum,” the journalist began, addressing Augsburg’s coach, “How is your evening going with the team? I noticed a beer box in the locker room.”

Kompany struggled to understand the term “Tragal,” linking it to the German verb “tragen,” meaning “to carry.”

“Excuse me, what?” Kompany queried.

Clarifying the Confusion

“A Tragal beer,” both the Bayern press officer and the reporter explained. “It refers to a case of beer, a box of beer. In Bavarian dialect, it’s ‘Tragal.’”

“Uh, I didn’t spot any beer,” Kompany responded.

“I was asking Mr. Baum,” the reporter clarified, adding, “It would have surprised me if you all were having beer after a loss.”

Taking It Lightly

“Haha,” Kompany responded, taking the misunderstanding in stride, “No, we haven’t reached that point yet.”

Eventually, Baum chimed in, “Today we might enjoy a little beer, but most of my players don’t drink anyway.”