Bayern Munich’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß has made his feelings on the 2026 Ballon d’Or very clear: Harry Kane deserves to win it. Speaking to Abendzeitung, Bayern Munich’s honorary president backed the England striker while questioning the cases of some of his biggest competitors, including Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé (as captured by @iMiaSanMia):
Uli Hoeneß on Harry Kane/Ballon d’Or: “He absolutely deserves it. And I hope he wins it. I think giving Messi the Ballon d’Or for a fifth time would be nonsense. Harry Kane has had an outstanding season across all competitions. If he doesn’t deserve it this year, then when will he? Mbappé? They [Real Madrid] didn’t win a single title – and we won two.”
Kane enjoyed the most prolific season of his career in 2025/26, scoring 73 goals for Bayern and England across 65 appearances. He helped Bayern win the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal while also reaching the Champions League semifinals, scoring against teams, such as Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Chelsea FC.
Hoeneß also took aim at the idea of Messi winning another award would not be appropriate. The Bayern legend was also dismissive of Mbappé’s chances, pointing to Real Madrid’s lack of major silverware last season compared with Bayern’s domestic success. Hoeneß’s comments reflect the importance he places on combining individual production with team achievements when assessing the award.
Kane is among the 30 nominees for the Ballon d’Or, alongside Bayern teammates Michael Olise, Luis Díaz and Dayot Upamecano. The ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London.
Kane has already acknowledged that the final decision is out of his hands, but his 73-goal campaign has put him firmly in the conversation. Now, with Hoeneß making his case publicly, Bayern’s most prominent voice is leaving little doubt about who he believes should take home the prize.
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