'Changing dynamics' - Burnley explain decision to let Vincent Kompany leave for Bayern Munich in gracious message to outgoing head coach

The German giants made the surprise decision to hire the Belgian as Thomas Tuchel's replacement, announcing his appointment on Wednesday afternoon. The former Manchester City centre-back joins the Bundesliga side despite suffering relegation from the Premier League with Burnley, and the Clarets have revealed why they agreed to his departure.

"We can confirm that Burnley FC has come to an agreement that will allow Vincent Kompany to leave Turf Moor," a statement from the club read.

"Whilst we were initially confident in retaining our manager, the changing dynamics of the situation made this impossible. We understand the allure and prestige of a club like Bayern Munich and respect Vincent’s ambition to explore new opportunities. We wish only the best for Vincent and would like to put on record our appreciation for his dedication every single day he was a part of this football club.

"Our priority remains the stability and success of Burnley FC, and we will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure that our ambition is realised - namely our return to the Premier League. We have started the search for a new manager and will make an announcement in due course."

Bayern turned to Kompany after seeing several other candidates for the role reject their advances. First choice coach Xabi Alonso opted to stay at Bayer Leverkusen, while Germany and Austria managers Julian Nagelsmann and Ralf Rangnick, respectively, also decided to stay in their current roles. Eventually, the Bavarian club reportedly considered keeping Tuchel before approaching Kompany when the German rejected a contract offer.

Kompany, 38, will soon get busy with improving his new side ahead of the 2024-25 season. Bayern endured a horrid season under Tuchel, finishing third in the Bundesliga and crashing out of the DFB-Pokal and the Champions League.