Harry Kane sets sights on Ballon d’Or after Second European Golden Shoe

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has set his sights on football’s most prestigious individual prize after collecting his second European Golden Shoe in Munich on Wednesday.

The England captain was presented with the award after finishing as the highest-scoring player across Europe’s top domestic leagues last season.

Kane previously won the 2023/24 European Golden Shoe during his first season with Bayern, but the latest triumph appears to mean even more to the prolific striker.

“This one tasted even better than the first,” Kane said after receiving the award.

Kane Enjoyed a Remarkable Season

The 33-year-old enjoyed an outstanding campaign, scoring 36 goals in 31 Bundesliga appearances as Bayern secured the league and cup double.

His tally was also the third-highest recorded in a single German top-flight season.

Kane’s impressive form extended beyond club football, with the England captain scoring six goals at the World Cup and becoming his country’s leading scorer in the competition with 14 career goals.

Across club and international football, Kane finished the season with an extraordinary 73 goals for Bayern and England.

That remarkable record has naturally placed him among the leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Kane Believes He Has Done Everything Possible

Kane admitted that winning the Ballon d’Or would be a major achievement, particularly after what he considers to be the best season of his career.

However, the striker also recognises that the final decision is out of his hands.

“Obviously, that’s out of my control. I know, of course, there’s going to be a lot of talk about it from now until October when it’s announced,” Kane said.

“Ultimately, I’ve done everything I can last season. It was my best season by far. I achieved a lot with the teams I was in.”

Kane helped Bayern Munich reach the Champions League semi-finals, where they were narrowly beaten by eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.

He also played a key role in England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, although the Three Lions eventually suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat against Argentina.

Only Messi and Ronaldo Have Won More Golden Shoes

Kane’s latest European Golden Shoe also places him in elite company.

Only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have won the award more often than the England international.

Messi claimed the prize six times during his career, all while playing for Barcelona. Ronaldo won it four times, collecting three during his Real Madrid career and once with Manchester United.

That puts Kane among the most prolific goalscorers in European football history.

However, when asked who should win this year’s Ballon d’Or, Kane was reluctant to put himself ahead of the competition.

“That’s for you guys to debate and fans to debate,” he said.

Kane Faces Strong Ballon d’Or Competition

The 2026 Ballon d’Or is set to be awarded in London in late October, and Kane knows there will be plenty of competition for the prestigious prize.

“That’s what makes the Ballon d’Or so special as well. Many players have had great seasons,” he added.

Ultimately, Kane’s case will be judged on his remarkable goalscoring record, his success with Bayern and his performances for England.

With 73 goals across club and country, a domestic double and a second European Golden Shoe, Kane can certainly argue that he has done everything within his control to put himself in contention.

Kane Set for Bayern Contract Talks

Away from the Ballon d’Or race, Kane is also preparing for an important period regarding his future at Bayern.

The striker revealed on Monday that he was set to begin contract negotiations with Bayern Munich, with his current deal scheduled to expire in 2027.

For now, though, Kane’s attention will be firmly focused on building on what was arguably the finest season of his career — and potentially adding the Ballon d’Or to his growing collection of individual honours.