Bayern Munich wanted manager with 'name and fame' as they eyed Man Utd flop Ralf Rangnick

Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl claims he was reluctant to suggest Vincent Kompany as their manager with the club seeking individuals with "name and fame " - which had Ralf Rangnick on their shortlist. Kompany is in the midst of his second season at the Allianz Arena and could break numerous records whilst also delivering a treble as the Bavarians enjoy a stunning year. The Belgian was a top quality player but had yet to properly convince as a manager. Bayern were seeking someone to replace Thomas Tuchel , who was leaving at the end of his contract. The hierarchy at the club considered a number of names who, largely, had impressive reputations in Germany. They held talks with Julian Nagelsmann, who is in charge of the national side. It even led them to Rangnick, who had a horror spell at Manchester United , but is held in higher regard in Germany. Eventually Kompany was suggested and a phone call to Pep Guardiola for a reference played a huge part in the decision. Eberl told German broadcaster ZDF : "When the question came up whether we were really sure, I said to Kalle [Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, former Bayern chairman]: 'Kalle, you're so close to Pep, aren't you?' Call him and ask what he thinks of Kompany. That was the breakthrough." Eberl wasn't shy in admitting that the club wanted high profile individuals - and the majority of names on their shortlist had claimed managerial honours. Kompany's biggest success was winning the Championship with Burnley , whom he then got relegated. He also had an underwhelming spell at Anderlecht. "I did get the feeling that there were initially some question marks and surprise when I put forward the name [Kompany]," said the Bayern chief. "Of course, we had received rejections beforehand. It's no secret that Julian Nagelsmann was a possibility, that we spoke with Ralf Rangnick, that we spoke with Oliver Glasner . Some also wanted Hansi Flick back. We don't need to beat around the bush about that. "As I have said before: Vincent Kompany was indeed already on our list. But to be honest - and I am being completely open about this - I didn't dare propose Vincent Kompany first. Instead, we first approached top coaches with name and fame." Bayern have won 43 of their 49 games this term and have scored a staggering 113 goals in 31 Bundesliga games. The Bavarians have secured the title and are in the final of the German Cup. This Tuesday they take on PSG in the last four of the Champions League with Kompany still seeking to emulate Jupp Heynckes and Flick in winning trebles in Munich. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.