Harry Kane Makes Bold Ballon d’Or Claim

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has opened up about his aspirations to win the Ballon d’Or, confidently asserting that he is a “credible candidate” for the prestigious accolade in 2025.

A Career of Individual Brilliance

Despite earning recognition as one of the greatest strikers in modern football, Kane’s career has been defined more by individual milestones than team success. The England captain is the all-time leading scorer for both Tottenham Hotspur and the England national team, yet his trophy cabinet remains conspicuously empty.

Kane’s debut season at Bayern Munich coincided with the club’s first trophy-less campaign in over a decade. However, the 30-year-old forward’s incredible performances stood out, as he scored 44 goals in 45 games, earning him the Gerd Muller Trophy, which he shared with Kylian Mbappe at the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony.

Speaking to L’Equipe, Kane reflected on the significance of his first season abroad:

“This trophy validates my career choice, that of leaving my country for the first time at the age of 30. It also allowed me to attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony at the Theatre du Chatelet, which was a dream come true.”

Kane added with a wink:

“I’m hoping to come back perhaps to win an even more prestigious one.”

The Ballon d’Or Dream

When asked whether winning the Ballon d’Or was a genuine ambition, Kane was emphatic:

“Of course I’m thinking about it! And, why not say it, I believe in it. I feel like my performances make me a credible candidate.

“I play for teams like Bayern and England, who are natural contenders for big victories. With my individual performances and a major collective victory, like the Champions League, why couldn’t I believe in my chances?”

Kane also expressed his admiration for the Ballon d’Or’s prestige, especially during the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era:

“I have dreamed of the Ballon d’Or since I was little, and even more so during the Messi-Ronaldo period, which elevated its significance for my generation.”

Silverware on the Horizon

Bayern Munich currently lead the Bundesliga standings and are poised to end Kane’s long wait for a collective trophy. While their Champions League campaign has faced challenges, the Bavarians remain strong contenders for the title.

Kane hopes to emulate Michael Owen, who remains the only Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or this century. Kane concluded the interview with a laugh, teasing a potential triumph in the future:

“Who knows if in 2025 we will not see each other again for another interview?”