Vincent Kompany, the former Manchester City captain and current Bayern Munich manager, has offered some pointed advice to young winger Jeremy Doku, urging him to refine one aspect of his game to unlock his full potential at the Etihad. Kompany, who spent over a decade at City and won four Premier League titles, believes Doku’s tendency to over-dribble in dangerous areas is holding him back from becoming a truly elite player.
Dazzling but Risky Style
Jeremy Doku, the 22-year-old Belgian star, joined Manchester City from Rennes in the summer of 2023 for a reported £55 million. Known for his electrifying pace, close control, and flair, Doku has quickly become a fan favourite, often leaving defenders in his wake with his dazzling runs.
The Critique
“He’s an unbelievable talent, no question,” Kompany said. “The boy has everything—speed, skill, and that fearlessness you want in a winger. But there’s one thing he really needs to stop doing: dribbling in areas where losing the ball puts the team in trouble. At City, with the way Pep [Guardiola] demands control, you can’t afford to give possession away cheaply in your own half or in tight spaces. It’s a risk that doesn’t always pay off.”
The Numbers Behind the Concern
Kompany’s critique comes from a place of experience, having played under Guardiola’s meticulous system, where possession and positional discipline are paramount. Doku’s aggressive dribbling style, while thrilling, has occasionally led to turnovers that expose City’s defense, particularly in high-stakes matches. In the 2024/25 Premier League season, Doku was dispossessed an average of 2.1 times per game, one of the highest rates among City’s attacking players.
Balancing Flair and Discipline
This isn’t to say Doku’s flair isn’t valued. His ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations—completing 3.8 dribbles per game, second only to Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze in the league—makes him a vital weapon in City’s arsenal. However, Kompany believes that tempering his instinct to dribble at every opportunity could elevate him further.
