Kompany Leaves Man City For Anderlecht As Player-Manager

By Max Wise

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has announced that he will be leaving the club after eleven years in the summer to join Anderlecht as a player-manager.

Kompany joined Manchester City from German side Hamburg in 2008 before Sheikh Mansour bought the club and turned it into a major force in English and European football.

Saturday’s FA Cup final win over Watford has proven to be Kompany’s last game for Manchester City, and he will join boyhood club Anderlecht in Belgium.

Kompany has led Manchester City to their most successful era, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League cups.

Commenting on his decision, Kompany wrote a letter to fans on Facebook, saying: "We've just seen the close of an incredible season. My 11th as a Blue. I cannot believe I'm writing this but ... also my last as a Blue.

"Countless of times have I imagined this day, after all, the end has felt nearby for so many years. It still doesn't feel real. Man City has given me everything.

"As overwhelming as it is, the time has come for me to go. And what a season to bow out. I feel nothing but gratefulness. I am grateful to all those who supported me on a special journey, at a very special club.

"I remember the first day, as clear as I see the last. I remember the boundless kindness I received from the people of Manchester.

"I will never forget how all Man City supporters remained loyal to me in good times and especially bad times. Against the odds you have always backed me and inspired me to never give up.

"Sheikh Mansour changed my life and that of all the City fans around the world, for that I am forever grateful. A blue nation has arisen and challenged the established order of things, I find that awesome.

"I cherish the counsel and leadership of a good human being, Khaldoon Al Mubarak. Man City could not be in better hands."

Kompany’s final few years in Manchester were punctuated by a number of niggling injuries but he has roared back to play a pivotal role in City’s domestic treble this campaign, notably his long-range goal against Leicester City in the penultimate league game of the season.