Pep Guardiola's only 'pity' about his time with Vincent Kompany is that the Manchester City manager was not able to name the defender in his starting XI as often as he wanted to.
Kompany was exceptional for the first three years of Guardiola's time at the Etihad, although he had to battle through a number of injuries that hampered his playing time. It was testament to the ability and character of the centre-back that he did not let those problems stop him from bouncing back each time and maintaining his high level on the pitch.
Off the pitch, the Belgian was a constant help to Guardiola right from the start. As the manager adapted to a new league and country, he found it invaluable not only that Kompany controlled the dressing room even when he wasn't playing but also that he would speak his mind on issues when he thought a point needed making.
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Guardiola was delighted to have him as a captain, and is delighted that he is returning to the Etihad as a successful manager with his Burnley side hoping to upset the Blues in the FA Cup. However, Kompany's presence on the touchline will be a sore reminder for Guardiola.
"He's an incredibly important figure here. He's one of the biggest legends I had," said Guardiola. "Personally I have one little pity - that sometimes he was sometimes injured for a lot of time when we were together but the important thing was from day one how he helped me.
"I arrived here from another country, I didn't know the Premier League and he used to make a step forward in the locker room in the bad moments to help the team, and personally to me say the things he believed was best for the club. He was an exceptional captain, a top human being, and I'm really pleased.
"On the other side, I'm concerned because when you start to play a game and the opponent on the touchline is a player that you had, you realise how old you are becoming. That is a little bit frustrating, but it's nice to see him. He wants to win, we want to win, and we will take it seriously."
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