Harry Kane: Ready to give up the Ballon d'Or "with just one condition"

Photo: Sky News Arabia

English striker Harry Kane, the star of German club Bayern Munich, announced on Monday that he would trade the Ballon d'Or for a UEFA Champions League title with the Bavarian team, ahead of an important match against Spanish side Atlético Madrid.

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In another context, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker spoke about not receiving the recognition he deserved in his home country before moving to Bayern in 2023, noting that "people who understand football have always appreciated my style of play."

He said: "I think there are many people who respect me and appreciate what I bring to the game. And certainly, in the age of social media, you will always face criticism. I haven't won trophies for a long time in my career, and some have used that as an excuse to belittle me."

The 33-year-old player continued: "Since winning the Ballon d'Or, I have received a lot of positive feedback, perhaps because my career has been a bit different from that of other winners and due to the difficulties I faced, especially in the beginning. Some may not have expected me to reach the level I am at today, but effort, determination, and resilience have allowed me to get here."

Kane revealed some of the notable figures who congratulated him after his win, mentioning that he received special messages from his idol, former English star David Beckham, American football legend Tom Brady, and his friend, British singer Ed Sheeran.

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Kane stated during the pre-match press conference: "Would I trade the Ballon d'Or for a UEFA Champions League title? Honestly, yes, I would accept that. Team trophies are the reason we love football."

The England captain added: "I have to admit that winning the Ballon d'Or was one of the most beautiful moments of my life and an incredibly unique experience, but lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy with Bayern would be amazing. If the choice were mine, I would choose the Champions League, but I am fortunate to have the opportunity to compete for both titles at the same time."

In another context, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker spoke about not receiving the recognition he deserved in his home country before moving to Bayern in 2023, noting that "people who understand football have always appreciated my style of play."

He said: "I think there are many people who respect me and appreciate what I bring to the game. And certainly, in the age of social media, you will always face criticism. I haven't won trophies for a long time in my career, and some have used that as an excuse to belittle me."

The 33-year-old player continued: "Since winning the Ballon d'Or, I have received a lot of positive feedback, perhaps because my career has been a bit different from that of other winners and due to the difficulties I faced, especially in the beginning. Some may not have expected me to reach the level I am at today, but effort, determination, and resilience have allowed me to get here."

Kane revealed some of the notable figures who congratulated him after his win, mentioning that he received special messages from his idol, former English star David Beckham, American football legend Tom Brady, and his friend, British singer Ed Sheeran.