Vincent Kompany returns to Bayern training ground with arm in a sling after collapse

Vincent Kompany has returned to Bayern Munich’s training ground for the first time since his collapse.

The 40-year-old fell ill during a reserve-team training session on Friday 23 October and was taken to hospital, where he was diagnosed with meningeal irritation.

He had been unwell with a viral infection earlier that week, which forced him to miss the pre-match press conference ahead of Bayern’s visit of Arsenal in the Champions League. He was able to be on the touchline for that match, which took place two days before his collapse, but he was nevertheless subdued in the dugout.

The Bundesliga champions’ director of sport Max Eberl said his return would take “weeks, not days” as Bayern insisted he would only return when he was back to full health.

And on Tuesday morning, Kompany was spotted at Bayern’s Sabener Strasse training complex, with German newspaper Bild circulating photos of the Belgian in the club’s offices.

He appeared to have his left arm in a sling, which is said to be due to a dislocated shoulder suffered during the fall.

The club have not yet put out a statement confirming his return. The Independent has contacted Bayern Munich for comment.

Kompany could now be in contention to make his comeback in the dugout when Bayern host Koln on Friday 20 November after the international break.

The club have won four and drawn one since assistant manager Aaron Danks took the reins from Kompany, only dropping points in a dramatic 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker.

Bayern are top of the Bundesliga table with 21 points in nine games, level on points with Dortmund but ahead on goal difference.

During Kompany’s time away, Bayern talisman and England captain Harry Kane has also brought the Ballon d’Or back to Bavaria, pipping Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe to football’s top individual prize.

Kane paid tribute to Kompany in his acceptance speech, who was still in hospital at the time.

He said: “To Vinnie, I know he's at home or I think still in the hospital so wishing you very well. Hope this has gave you a bit of energy.

“To Vinnie and all the staff, the way we train, the way you push us, it's a credit to yourself. Since I've been with you, I've improved as a player, no doubt, improved as a person, as a leader, and that's thanks to your leadership.”