Champions League
Harry Kane Calls Bayern Munich To Save Their Season And Knock Out Arsenal
On Tuesday, Harry Kane expressed optimism that Bayern Munich could salvage their season by winning the Champions League, ahead of their home quarter-final second leg against Arsenal on Wednesday.
Having officially lost the title to Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen on Sunday, Bayern are facing the possibility of their first trophyless season since 2012.
Despite not having won a trophy in his career yet, the England captain remains hopeful that Champions League success could transform the season for Bayern Munich.
“It’s no secret here that the club sets out to win the Champions League every season,” he told reporters. “You know, from the club’s point of view, it will be a failed season if we don’t win anything this year because we’re expected to win,” Kane said, describing it as the “harsh reality of winning and losing.”
He continued, “We still have the opportunity to turn the season into a great season if we win the Champions League. The motivation is still there for us as players. If we can do something special tomorrow night of course that keeps that hope alive.”
After a 2-2 draw at the Emirates, Bayern and Kane traveled back from north London. With the away goal rule no longer in effect, one team must secure a victory on Wednesday to advance to the final four.
Kane made the switch to Bayern from Tottenham last summer, leaving behind Arsenal’s north London rivals. His entire career was spent at Spurs, having been let go from the Gunners academy during his childhood.
During his time at Tottenham, Kane netted 14 goals in 19 matches against Arsenal and scored another goal during Bayern’s recent visit last week.
“Maybe it is in the back of my mind that I was released at a young age (by Arsenal) there was a point to prove and I’m the kind of player who has had points to prove throughout my career,” he said. “I don’t think that ever leaves you. That will always be in my DNA until I’m retired.
He continued, “Now I’m here at Bayern Munich and of course, I have a history with them (Arsenal) but all I can try and do is help Bayern Munich qualify for the semi-finals of the Champions League.”
Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Manuel Neuer and Leroy Sane, who were absent from the team’s recent league victory against Cologne, are set to make their return. However, Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman will be unavailable due to injuries, and Alphonso Davies will be serving a suspension.
