Jurgen Klopp says Bayern Munich’s tactics and Harry Kane’s role remain unclear to him

Jurgen Klopp has questioned Vincent Kompany’s tactical approach at Bayern Munich after their 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the third round of the Champions League at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday.

Speaking during the first half on DAZN, the former Liverpool manager said he was yet to fully understand Bayern’s defensive organisation.

“I still haven’t completely understood Bayern’s defensive system,” Klopp said. “Their style of play is sometimes hybrid. At times it is man-marking, at times individual defending and at times zonal defending. I just want to understand it because I am still learning.”

Klopp, who is the manager of the Germany national team, also highlighted the freedom given to England striker Harry Kane within Kompany’s system.

“It is also said that Harry Kane is everywhere on the pitch,” he added. “I think that is brilliant when Bayern have the ball. But when I see Kane in the last line of defence, or pressing in midfield… listen, I am not the father of football. Everyone is free to do what they want, but I cannot say that I understand the way Bayern play.”

Kompany was asked to respond to Klopp’s comments but chose not to engage in a wider exchange with him. Instead, the Bayern Munich manager focused on Kane’s contribution.

“Harry is everywhere, and he is a player who makes remarkably good decisions very often,” Kompany said.

Kane again played a decisive part for Bayern Munich against Arsenal. He created the opening goal for Alphonso Davies before scoring from the penalty spot, underlining his importance to the German side’s attacking structure.

The performance came only a few days before the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Kane continuing to make a significant contribution to Bayern Munich’s system despite the questions raised by Klopp over his positioning.