Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane expressed his desire to perform better against English teams ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League opener against Chelsea.
Speaking to reporters in Munich on Tuesday, the 32-year-old former Spurs striker noted that his historic rivalry with Chelsea adds extra excitement to the match.
“The rivalry was particularly strong early in my Tottenham career during the (Mauricio) Pochettino era. We had many challenging and memorable games,” Kane said.
Kane faced Chelsea 22 times in all competitions with Tottenham, securing seven wins and scoring eight goals before his transfer to Bayern in 2023.
The England captain won his first team trophy last season with Bayern’s Bundesliga victory but said he feels extra motivation when
playing English sides.
“Playing against Premier League teams always brings higher expectations. Chelsea fans may not be fond of me, and likewise, Arsenal fans. That drives me to perform better. Seeing familiar faces adds a special element to the game.”
Kane has scored 93 goals in 101 games for Bayern and remarked that he was surprised by his record since moving to Germany.
“I didn’t expect it. I always believed in my ability to score goals, but I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. The style here suits me, and I’m currently feeling very confident, both physically and mentally.”
Kane dismissed claims from club powerbroker Uli Hoeness that Bayern, six-time Champions League winners, are underdogs in Europe this season.
“Being at Bayern Munich comes with the expectation to win major competitions, especially the Champions League. If we don’t win, there will be disappointment, so I wouldn’t say we’re underdogs.”
This summer, Bayern signed Luis Diaz and Nicolas Jackson from the Premier League, with Jackson arriving from Wednesday’s opponents, Chelsea. These were among few players making high-profile moves from the Bundesliga to England.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany reiterated his concerns about the financial disparity between leagues on Tuesday.
“There’s a significant financial gap between the Premier League and other leagues,” Kompany stated. “We need to address this issue eventually. The Bundesliga has a wealth of talent, and English clubs have bought many players from here. But tomorrow’s match is not about Bundesliga versus Premier League.”
(With AFP Inputs)
