There’s a strong argument to suggest that Vincent Kompany’s £7.65 million move to Manchester City is right up there with one of the greatest transfers in football history.
Signed from Hamburg in 2008 as a defensive midfielder, the Belgian cocooned into one of the most revered centre-backs as well as one of the most inspirational captains in Premier League history.
The all-conquering defender captained City as they ended their 44-year wait for a league title, whilst also being recognised as the Premier League Player of The Year for his monstrous displays at the back.
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As a result, it was only right that a statue honouring the untouchable legacy of Kompany was unveiled outside the Etihad Stadium in August 2021.
The club had commissioned local sculptor Andy Scott to build the legendary skipper’s statue, who incorporated a special future that sees the structure become illuminated by a blue-tinted light during night-time.
The statue was in the works starting in June 2020 and as things stand, it is placed alongside other such figures paying homage to fellow club legends, David Silva and Sergio Agüero.
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As Kompany has been hired to revive Burnley - who suffered relegation from the Premier League last season - he has shared his thoughts on the statue in place to honour his illustrious time at City.
“I live very much for the here and now. I am a coach now. That is the only thing I care about.
"I will let you in on something: I am still to go and see the statue. I am so grateful, yet I’m also a person who is almost shy with these moments,” he revealed, as quoted by the Mirror.
The ex-Belgian international continued, “I find it hard to find words to explain it.
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"It is a recognition that is so big. It’s too big.
"This is the other side of me. This is the Vinny who is coming to Burnley to see our guys really have a fight and give something to the fans when they come to the game.
"I will go to see it one day. But as a coach, I don't have to worry about statues and stuff right now. I have to worry about Millwall. I have to think about Rotherham. I have to think about Huddersfield away.
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"That is something I am very much looking forward to. Nothing else.”
Much like he was during his playing days, Kompany’s razor-sharp focus comes through as he embarks on his managerial career.
Ultimately, the City icon’s humility shines through, as he describes how overwhelmed he feels by being awarded with a deserved statue.
With the season only around the corner, it would not be unlikely to see a lot of City fans routing for their old skipper next season.
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It is certainly a step up in management for Kompany, but we already know the Belgian relishes a challenge.
Featured Image Credit: News Images / AlamyTopics: Manchester City, Vincent Kompany, Premier League, Burnley