Harry Kane hopes to complete his 73-goal season by winning the Ballon d’Or when the prize is handed out in London on Monday, October 26. The 33-year-old’s haul for Bayern Munich and his country has seen him finish second to Lionel Messi’s incredible tally of 82 goals in a single campaign.
Kane, who joined the Bundesliga giants from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023, has excelled in his role as forward for the Bavarian club, netting 53 goals in 53 appearances. His all-round impact saw him set up a late equaliser for Alphonso Davies and score a penalty during Wednesday’s (October 21) clash with Arsenal at the Allianz Arena.
“I’m going to try and enjoy Monday night as much as possible. It’s a big occasion and a big event,” Kane said, according to media reports.
Kane has displayed exceptional scoring ability throughout his season-long campaign, as well as creating chances for Bayern’s attack.
Having joined Bayern from Tottenham, Kane has flourished in his role as a forward for the Bundesliga leaders. His impact on the pitch has seen him shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or prize, which is voted on by international football journalists based on individual performances, team success and fair play.
“I think he’s a Ballon d’Or candidate for sure,” Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said. “Now if he can crown his career or his season with the Ballon d’Or, that would be deserved for the way he plays for the team, as well.”
Kane will face competition from Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, France captain Kylian Mbappé, last year’s winner Ousmane Dembélé, Bayer Leverkusen striker Michael Olise as well as his Bayern team-mate.
While Yamal and Mbappe have openly championed their chances of winning the award, Harry Kane has remained reserved despite growing media attention. Following his impressive performance on Wednesday, the striker repeatedly downplayed the speculation, saying he was focused on enjoying Monday’s ceremony rather than thinking about the outcome.
“I try not to think about it, obviously it’s hard. There’s rumours flying around so you try and stay away from it. I’m going to try and enjoy Monday night as much as possible. It’s a big occasion and a big event,” Kane said.
The England international will be hoping to become the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to win the prize, with the vote taking place in his home city. Despite Kane’s credentials, it will ultimately be up to the individual journalists who vote for the winner to decide his fate.