Kompany led Bayern Munich to a domestic double — Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal — as well as a Champions League semifinal where they were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in a thrilling two-legged contest.
Henry, who worked alongside Kompany as an assistant with the Belgian national team, told Sport Illustrated Germany he saw the potential long before most.
"I worked with him when I was assistant coach of Belgium. Even then you could see how intelligent he is. He speaks many languages and is very clear about what he wants. He doesn't hesitate, and when he says something he means it. He is a strong leader and has proved he can deliver when he has the right players."
Henry also directed credit toward Bayern's leadership for the appointment itself, noting the risk involved in hiring a manager who had just been relegated from the Premier League with Burnley.
"You have to give the Bayern management credit for signing him despite Burnley's relegation. They saw something in him that aligns with the club's identity. It was a wise decision."
He acknowledged the scepticism that greeted the appointment at the time.
"At first many doubted he was the right man, but he is doing a fantastic job. Put someone like him in the right environment, with people who understand him, and you get today's FC Bayern."
Kompany is contracted at Bayern until the summer of 2029.