Harry Kane says Ballon d’Or win will not alter views of his critics

Harry Kane says winning the Ballon d’Or is unlikely to change the minds of his English critics, insisting those who understand football have long appreciated his ability.

The Bayern Munich striker was asked whether he believed he had been judged unfairly in England during a press conference before his side’s match against Atletico Madrid.

Kane, 33, was cautious about claiming he had faced widespread unfair treatment, pointing out that many people had respected his performances throughout his career.

He accepted that criticism from supporters and on social media is inevitable, while acknowledging that his failure to win a major team trophy for much of his career may have shaped some opinions of him.

The England international also faced doubts early in his Tottenham Hotspur career. He spent three loan spells away from the club before establishing himself in the first team and taking the place of expensive signing Roberto Soldado.

Kane has since won multiple trophies with Bayern Munich and added the Ballon d’Or to his individual honours.

“I’m not too sure, I think there’s still a lot of people who respected me and appreciated me,” Kane said, in comments quoted by iMiaSanMia on X.

“I think the people who know football, who understand football, have always been a fan of mine and the way I play and the way I approach the game.

“Of course, nowadays with social media and fans, you’re always going to get stick from a certain majority. You know, when obviously I didn’t win a team trophy for a long part of my career, and some people use that against me.

“But like I said, I think the people who really understand football were always understanding of my game and, as I’ve come here to Bayern Munich, they appreciate it even more.”