Bayern Munich are navigating one of the most turbulent weeks in their recent history, yet they emerge from it top of the Bundesliga with 17 points from seven games. The defining story is the collapse of head coach Vincent Kompany on Friday during a reserve team session. He was airlifted to hospital and remains there under observation, with sporting director Max Eberl confirming the absence will last weeks rather than days. No final diagnosis has been issued, though Eberl said Kompany no longer has headaches and is in stable condition. Club officials have instructed all visitors to avoid discussing football with him entirely.

Against that backdrop, co-trainer Aaron Danks led a heavily depleted side to a 3-1 win at Freiburg. Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, Luis Diaz, Min-jae Kim, Aleksandar Pavlovic and teenager Bara Ndiaye all missed the match through injury or personal circumstances, forcing five changes to the starting lineup. Dayot Upamecano scored the opener and was the standout performer, while Michael Olise sealed the result in stoppage time. Jonas Urbig made five key saves in a nervy closing spell after Tom Bischof's own goal gave Freiburg a foothold.

Kompany sent Danks a WhatsApp message after the final whistle reading "Well done." Danks replied asking him to rest. Bayern next host Magdeburg in the DFB-Pokal on Wednesday before a top-of-the-table Bundesliga clash with Borussia Dortmund, who are level on 17 points, on Saturday.