Vincent Kompany hospitalised after collapsing while watching Bayern reserve training

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany was taken to hospital on Friday after collapsing while watching a training session involving the club’s reserve side, the Bundesliga club said.

The 40-year-old had been battling a viral illness earlier in the week and missed Bayern’s pre-match press conference ahead of their Champions League clash against Arsenal on Tuesday; he returned to the touchline on Wednesday to oversee that match.

A club statement said: "Vincent Kompany had to seek medical treatment on Friday after collapsing during training for FC Bayern's amateurs," adding, "The first-team coach had been watching the second team's session." The statement continued: "Kompany will undergo thorough examination in the hospital and remain in medical care. "For the time being, his coaching staff will manage training and match operations."

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl commented on the situation, saying: "Vincent Kompany's health is our top priority. We at FC Bayern will do everything we can to ensure his speedy recovery," and added: "Vinnie will receive all the necessary medical care and support, and all the time he needs. "His coaching team, in whom we have complete confidence, will take over his duties. Everyone at FC Bayern wishes Vinnie a speedy recovery."

In Kompany’s absence from Tuesday’s media duties, assistant coach Aaron Danks stepped in to address the press ahead of the Arsenal encounter.

Bayern are scheduled to face Freiburg in the Bundesliga on Sunday, and remain top of the table with 14 points from six matches; they are level on points with Borussia Dortmund but sit above them on superior goal difference.