Out of despair comes hope.
This is how Burnley fans see the appointment of serial winner Vincent Kompany as their new manager.
Kompany, who played for Manchester City from 2008 to 2019, is the first Belgian to manage in England, and Burnley’s first manager outside the British Isles.
Upon his appointment earlier this week, the 36-year-old said: “Burnley is a historic English side, and it is an honour to be appointed manager.
“I’m looking forward to creating a positive, winning team for our fans. I look forward to playing my part as we enter an important season.”
Burnley’s objective is obvious – a return to the top flight that it graced for six consecutive seasons.
The pressure is on, as pre-season begins earlier than usual due to the World Cup in November. Kompany has his work cut out for him.
All teams will be back in camp early next month, and Burnley fans hope Kompany’s winning touch – he won four league titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups with City – will soon rub off on the players.
But before that happens, the former Belgian captain needs to sort out the future of several key players.
He has already lost defensive stalwarts Ben Mee and James Tarkowski, both of whom are out of contract at the end of the month.
They were among 14 senior and Under-23 players released by Burnley earlier this week.
Goalkeeper Nick Pope, who hopes to play in the World Cup for England, is a wanted man, as are striker Wout Weghorst, and wingers Maxwel Cornet and Dwight McNeil.
Kompany must convince the quartet to stay, as they could be the key to Burnley earning a quick-fire return to the Premier League.
Burnley is the bookies’ fifth favourite to win the Championship behind Watford, Norwich, West Brom, and Sheffield United.
Burnley has earned three promotions to the Premier League since 2009.
It does know a thing or two about the Championship, so do not be surprised if it rubs shoulders with the big boys in 2023.
