Kane would trade Ballon d’Or for Champions League trophy: ‘Team trophies are why we play football’

Kane also confirmed he was close to sealing a new deal to keep him with Bayern Munich for the foreseeable future. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Bayern Munich forward Harry Kane said that he would trade his Ballon d’Or for the Champions League title.

The England captain received the accolade last week, beating stars like Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. However, Kane said the reason he plays the game is to enjoy success with his team-mates.

“Team trophies are why we play football. The team aspect of our sport is really, really important,” Kane told reporters ahead of Bayern’s Champions League fixture against Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital.

“The Ballon d’Or last week was one of the best feelings I’ve had in my life and my career... but to have moments with the team, celebrations with the club, to be able to lift the Champions League with Bayern would be an incredible feeling.

“Of course the Ballon d’Or is a highlight, it puts me on an even bigger level, but you want to have these big finals, the Champions League, having that feeling of emotion with your team-mates as well.

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“I would choose the Champions League, but I have the opportunity to do both — let’s see what happens.”

The former Premier League star thanked Atletico coach Diego Simeone for his praise.

“I’d like to thank Diego Simeone, who is one of the best coaches of this era,” said Kane.

“I’m proud to receive praise from someone like him. Winning the Ballon d’Or was a huge achievement for me -- I’ve had to overcome many challenges in my career, some people didn’t think I’d get this far... but Simeone will do everything he can to stop me and the team tomorrow.”

Kane also confirmed he was close to sealing a new deal to keep him with the Bundesliga champion for the foreseeable future.

“I’d say it’s more days (than weeks)... we’re extremely close now,” said Kane, with his current contract expiring in June 2027.

(With AFP inputs)

Published on Nov 03, 2026

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