Harry Kane returned to Bayern Munich on Tuesday after winning the Ballon d’Or, the first English player to claim the award in 25 years. The former Tottenham Hotspur striker was greeted with a guard of honour and rapturous cheers from the club’s staff and fans as he walked into training. In a post on social media, Kane reflected on the night’s ceremony, describing it as an unforgettable moment and thanking his Bayern and England teammates for their support.
Bayern’s sporting director Christoph Freund praised Kane’s impact both on and off the pitch, noting that his goals, character and humility make him a standout figure. Freund added that the striker has taken the centre‑forward role to a new level and is an inspiration for young players. The club is celebrating its first Ballon d’Or winner in 45 years, and Kane becomes only the second player from a German club to win the award since 1996, following the likes of Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller and Karl‑Heinz Rummenigge.
Ahead of Bayern’s German Cup second‑round match against second‑division side 1. FC Magdeburg on Wednesday, the club promised a “special welcome” for Kane, who is expected to be available for the game. Bayern also plan to honour his achievement during the Bundesliga “Klassiker” against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, with the striker set to display the trophy to supporters. The club’s fourth Ballon d’Or winner after the German greats, Kane’s arrival comes at a time of mixed emotions for the team, as head coach Vincent Kompany is receiving medical treatment following a sudden collapse at training last week and midfielder Joshua Kimmich is on leave after a family bereavement.
Assistant coach Aaron Danks highlighted the contrast between the joy of Kane’s triumph and the recent hardships faced by the squad. He emphasized that the moments of happiness and the challenges they have endured together underscore the importance of people and solidarity within the club. With the Cup and Bundesliga fixtures looming, Bayern are poised to celebrate Kane’s historic accolade while navigating the ongoing recovery of key personnel.