Harry Kane has had a historic season with FC Bayern and has firmly established himself among the record champions’ great goal scorers. Now the Englishman is receiving praise from a true Bayern icon. Roy Makaay raves about Kane and believes he will play a key role at the World Cup as well.
With 61 goals in competitive matches, Harry Kane has had a season that is a rarity even at FC Bayern. The captain of the English national team was Munich’s standout offensive player and played a decisive role in helping the record champions win three domestic titles.
No wonder, then, that the 32-year-old is now among the candidates for the Ballon d’Or.
While many experts consider Kane a favorite for the prestigious award, the Bayern striker is now receiving prominent support from within his own ranks.
Roy Makaay knows exactly what it takes to be a goal-scorer at FC Bayern. Between 2003 and 2007, the Dutchman scored an impressive 78 goals in 129 Bundesliga matches for the Munich side and remains one of the most popular forwards in the club’s history.
In an interview with SPORT1, Makaay had clear words for Kane. “Harry Kane is amazing,” the former Bayern striker explained.
Makaay is particularly impressed by the Englishman’s consistency and his importance to the national team.
For Makaay, there is no doubt whatsoever about Kane’s exceptional quality. “Harry Kane is world-class—when he gets the ball, he’ll score his goals,” the Dutchman emphasized.
He then pointed out another impressive fact. “He’s England’s all-time leading scorer—that says it all.”
In fact, Kane has long since broken numerous records and established himself as one of the most successful strikers of his generation at both FC Bayern and the English national team.
A major responsibility at the World Cup
Makaay also sees Kane playing a central role at the World Cup.
However, the former Bayern pro also points out the enormous expectations in England. “The pressure in England is, of course, very high,” he explained.
Precisely because national team coach Thomas Tuchel left out some prominent names when selecting the squad, even more responsibility rests on the shoulders of the Bayern star.
A strong World Cup performance could give Kane an additional boost in the race for the Ballon d’Or. After his exceptional season with FC Bayern, the Englishman already has a strong case. Should he lead England deep into the tournament and continue to score regularly, his chances would increase further.
Kane himself has recently made no secret of the fact that he believes he has a real shot at the award.
Makaay sees France in the lead
Looking ahead to the World Cup, however, Roy Makaay has a different favorite. “For me, the top favorite is France—with so many superstars,” the Dutchman explained.
He also counts Spain, Portugal, and defending champion Argentina among the top contenders.
One thing seems clear to Makaay, though: With Harry Kane in this form, England is also among the teams that can have a significant say in the race for the World Cup title.