Vincent Kompany praises underrated Premier League midfielder ahead of Viking-Stavanger duel

Vincent Kompany, coach of FC Bayern Munich, recalled before the Champions League duel against Viking Stavanger a former teammate from the Premier League and praised his underrated quality. At the press conference on Monday he was asked about Norwegian players who crossed his career path.

Remembrance of Sander Berge

The name Sander Berge came up, whom Kompany coached during his time at FC Burnley. Berge is “a truly, truly underrated player”, the Belgian explained, emphasizing that he already works with some of the best players in Europe.

In the summer of 2023 Bayern signed the midfielder for just under €14 million in transfer fee from Burnley and worked with him for a season, Kompany said. Berge has frequently suffered injuries at inopportune moments in his career and has had to endure setbacks in the Premier League.

Current Situation of Berge

Since 2024 the 28‑year‑old Norwegian has been under contract with FC Fulham and is a solid presence in the defensive midfield there. For the Norwegian national team he has already earned 75 caps and played a key role in the historic qualification to the World Cup quarter‑finals in North America.

Komppany's praise also serves as a lesson: “One must never give up, eventually the doors will open.” Meanwhile Bayern will have to do without the injured first‑choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer on Wednesday; Jonas Urbig will be between the posts.