Harry Kane’s recent win of the Ballon d’Or is expected to strengthen his ties with Bayern Munich, according to former World Cup winner Lothar Matthaeus. Kane, who became the first English player to receive the award since Michael Owen in 2001, has been a standout figure for Bayern since joining the club.

Kane secured the prestigious individual accolade on Monday, following an impressive 2023 season in which he scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern across all competitions. His contributions helped Bayern achieve a domestic league and cup double last season. Additionally, Kane played a key role in England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, netting six goals in the tournament.

Speaking during an online media roundtable on Wednesday, Matthaeus, who won the Ballon d’Or himself in 1990, praised Kane’s impact both on and off the pitch. “We are very happy to have Harry Kane in the Bundesliga. He is an international ambassador of football,” Matthaeus said. He noted that Kane had found stability at Bayern, describing the club as the right fit with appropriate teammates, which contributed to Kane’s success.

Kane, 33, secured a €100 million ($111 million) transfer to Bayern in 2023, moving from his lifelong club Tottenham Hotspur in pursuit of major trophies. Since his arrival, Kane has helped Bayern win the Bundesliga title twice and is reportedly in contract negotiations with the German champions.

Matthaeus also pointed out that Kane’s Ballon d’Or win could be an incentive in current contract talks. “I think he gets a bonus for winning the Ballon d’Or,” Matthaeus said, contrasting his own experience when he received no financial reward 36 years ago. He added that beyond monetary considerations, the accolade solidifies Kane’s position at Bayern.

“The relationship between Harry Kane and Bayern Munich is perfect,” Matthaeus remarked. “With everything that has happened in the last three years, I think Harry will sign his contract for the next two, three years.”

Kane’s Ballon d’Or success underscores his outstanding individual and team accomplishments since joining Bayern, positioning him as a key figure in the club’s ambitions moving forward.