I think Kompany's reputation positively precedes him in the way that Balotelli's reputation doesn't serve him well. I used to think the Premier League needed more extravagant personalities like Balotelli, but what it actually needs is people like Kompany - who are well-mannered, excellent footballers that aren't boring.
Kompany has never been seen as a reckless player and is a favourite among all football fans because of his ability and intelligence. Not to mention that he's the perfect role model - off the field he's stayed away from the cameras, married a girl that enjoys staying in the Manchester area, had a couple of children and he always make a good showing of himself when he appears on TV. On the field I don't think anyone can deny his leadership qualities. Even the United fans I speak to say that if they had to have one City player in their team, they'd have Kompany over everyone else.
I don't think the only blood in his system is blue, because he still has an affectionate thought of Anderlecht every now and again, but I don't doubt his commitment to the club and haven't done since the day he was made captain. He believes in the armband and he believes in the club. For those reasons I can see him staying at the club for a long time - maybe until he retires.
