Why Kompany backs Congo at AFCON 2025 despite Jackson playing for Senegal

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has revealed his hopes for Congo at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Despite his striker, Nicolas Jackson, preparing to represent Senegal in the same group D as the Leopards of Congo.

Jackson, currently on an expensive loan from Chelsea FC, has scored five goals this season as a backup to Harry Kane.

What Vincent Kompany said about Jackson

Kompany answered questions on Jackson's availability ahead of the clash against Mainz on Sunday, praising his attitude in the squad.

“He’s very positively impressed. He’s helped us a lot in his moments and has a pretty good scoring record,” he said as cited by Flashscore.

The Belgian added that it was a luxury as a coach to have Jackson handle his role as a squad player with such maturity.

Meanwhile, the former Burnley manager revealed that the Senegalese forward will be allowed to travel to join the rest of the Senegal squad after their clash against Mainz.

“My understanding is that he'll be traveling to the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal after the match against Mainz,” abendzeitung reports.

AFCON 2025: Why does Kompany root for Congo?

Kompany’s support for Congo is rooted in his personal background. His father, Pierre, is a Congolese immigrant to Belgium and also serves as Jackson’s agent.

The former Manchester City defender admitted:

“You can’t underestimate how important the Africa Cup of Nations is for African players. I hope he goes as far as possible. Of course, I’d like Congo to win this Africa Cup of Nations, but otherwise, I wish Nicolas all the best.”

Jackson is expected to miss four Bayern Munich matches while on international duty, returning just in time for City’s Champions League clash against Olympiacos, scheduled two days after the AFCON final.

Group D of AFCON 2025 features Senegal, Benin, Congo, and Botswana. Senegal will open their campaign on 23 December at 4:00 pm Nigerian time, facing their first opponents at the Grande Stade de Tanger in Tangier.