Kompany Keeping Focused Ahead of Key St. Pauli Clash Despite Birthday Festivities

As Bayern prepares for their match against St. Pauli on Saturday, they boast a significant nine-point advantage in the league with six games remaining. They also currently lead their Champions League quarter-final tie 2-1 after achieving a surprising victory against the Spaniards at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this week.

“The short answer is no,” Kompany, who celebrated his milestone birthday on Friday, replied at a press conference when asked about any birthday festivities.

“Our main goal is to secure three points against St. Pauli. I’ve always celebrated my birthdays during the semi-finals and quarter-finals, so winning during such times is an extra treat.

“I’m trying to steer clear of the birthday celebrations,” he continued. “Right now, we’re in priority mode. There’s enough emotion building in the days ahead. Perhaps a glass of red wine later, but for now, it’s all about preparing for the match.”

Bayern remains in contention for three titles this season, with a German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen lined up for April 22.

They also have the opportunity to break the record for the most league goals in a season on Saturday, having netted 100 so far, just one goal shy of the all-time record.

Kompany hinted at potential changes to his starting XI for the encounter with St. Pauli.

“I want a squad that can deliver the same intensity and focus as we did in Madrid. Typically, we manage this well, but right now, my focus is not just on quality, but also on the freshness of the players,” he stated.

“Whatever adjustments we decide to make, we can’t afford to lose the momentum we’ve built.”

Regarding the return leg against Real next Wednesday, Kompany indicated that only a win will suffice.

“We achieved a victory at the Bernabeu, and next week we want another home win. My perspective on this is quite straightforward,” he concluded.