He impressed me more than Messi, Ronaldo — Vincent Kompany names toughest opponent

Despite acknowledging the legendary Messi and Ronaldo as the "best players" he ever faced, the former Manchester City captain named another icon as the one who left the biggest impression.

Kompany, who made 621 senior appearances for club and country between 2003 and 2020, revealed his choice during a special "Kids' Press Conference" with Bayern's young fan club members.

When asked to name the most difficult player he ever competed against, Kompany singled out the Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho.

"Ronaldinho impressed me the most," Kompany stated.

"Of course, Messi and Ronaldo are probably the best players, but from what I saw in one game, it was Ronaldinho."

The press conference also featured other questions, with Kompany reflecting on his time at Manchester City and the deep connection.

"The first title we won with Manchester City was my favorite," he recalled.

"We won it at the very last second. We had actually lost it on the final matchday, and then Kun Agüero scored at the last second, and we won the title. I'd say that was my favorite."

The former defender also credited his former manager, Pep Guardiola, as a major influence on his career.

"The best coach I've had was, of course, Pep Guardiola. He opened up my understanding of football," Kompany explained.

"It's not really about his tactics. It's about this mentality to always want to win everything, to see every game as an important game... Having this mentality to always be there."

When asked about his ambitions for Bayern Munich, Kompany's response was simple and direct: "Everything."