Sleep loss and heavy coffee consumption linked to Vincent Kompany collapse

Vincent Kompany’s lack of sleep, excessive coffee consumption and heavy workload contributed to the Bayern Munich manager collapsing during training, according to German newspaper Bild.

The Belgian was taken to hospital after losing consciousness on the training pitch as a result of a viral infection.

Bild also reported that Kompany’s excessive and irregular eating habits, together with a lack of physical activity, had contributed to his collapse.

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl provided an update on the 39-year-old’s condition during a news conference, saying Kompany was expected to remain in hospital for several more days while doctors continued their investigations.

“The good news is that Kompany’s condition is stable. I spoke to him, and also to his wife,” Eberl said.

“It was not easy for any of us. He collapsed on the pitch and will stay in hospital for a few more days while he is examined.”

Eberl added: “This shows once again that health is the most important thing in life, not football. So we all wish him a speedy recovery.”

He said Bayern were united behind their manager and would not rush his return.

“We at Bayern Munich stand together as one. The most important thing is to identify the cause of his illness and for him to regain full fitness. He will not return until he is medically fit,” Eberl said.

“The doctors have been trying to find the cause all the time. He had minor problems last week. The doctors are doing nothing other than trying to determine what is behind them.”

Eberl said initial tests had produced some findings, but more information was needed before Kompany’s illness and recovery time could be established.

“The examinations have produced some results, but further results are needed to determine precisely what the illness is and how long his recovery will take,” he said.

“I am not a doctor, but we can support him with love and encouragement.”

Kompany’s health problems first became apparent during Bayern’s Bundesliga meeting with RB Leipzig in the sixth round of matches, which Bayern won 6-1.

The virus caused him further difficulties, including preventing him from climbing stairs. He also missed the team’s training session on the Monday before Bayern’s Champions League match against Arsenal.

Kompany returned to the dugout for the game against Arsenal on Wednesday, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Bayern Munich lead the Bundesliga with 14 points, level with Borussia Dortmund but ahead on goal difference.

The club are preparing to face Freiburg on Sunday in the seventh round of the Bundesliga.