NewsLothar Matthäus: “Harry Kane Is the Best Striker in the World Right Now”
In his latest Sky Sport Germany column, Bayern legend Lothar Matthäus declared Harry Kane the most complete striker in world football, urging FC Bayern to extend his contract and to consider signing Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
Bayern should act quickly on Kane and Schlotterbeck
From FC Bayern’s perspective, Matthäus believes the club should move swiftly: “I would immediately extend Kane’s contract and try to get Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck.” His comments underline the importance of building Bayern’s next era around leadership and quality at both ends of the pitch.
Kane’s current deal runs until 2027, and Matthäus argues that Bayern should secure his long-term future sooner rather than later, given his form and influence under Vincent Kompany.
Kane’s form and freedom under Kompany
Matthäus pointed to Kane’s performance in the 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund as proof of his outstanding form and evolving role. The England captain was decisive in attack, but also played deeper and more freely than under Thomas Tuchel.
“Harry Kane is in outstanding form, as he impressively demonstrated in Saturday’s 2-1 win against Dortmund. I don’t see a better striker in the world right now — not just because of his goals, but because of his versatility and the positions he plays.” — Lothar Matthäus
According to Matthäus, Kompany has given Kane the creative freedom to express himself fully on the pitch: “He may not have had this level of freedom under Tuchel, or he simply takes it now for himself.”
He is everything: scorer, creator, and worker
The Sky expert emphasized that Kane’s game extends far beyond scoring goals, calling him a complete footballer who contributes in every area of the pitch.
“He demonstrates qualities as a passer, dribbler, and tackler. He is simultaneously a goalscorer, playmaker, box-to-box player, and tackler. I’ve never seen Haaland and Mbappé slide tackle in their own penalty area like Kane did in the 88th minute against Dortmund.” — Lothar Matthäus
Matthäus added that Kane’s ability to hit 50-meter passes and control games from deep make him unique among modern forwards: “I haven’t seen the chip shots or long balls that Kane can play from the other two.”
Ballon d’Or recognition must follow
Despite his performances, Matthäus expressed surprise that Kane finished only 13th in the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting. He believes sustained form and team success could make Kane a genuine contender for the next edition.
“When you look at Kane’s performances, you wonder why he only came 13th in the Ballon d’Or voting. If he continues like this, he might win it next year — but that will only be possible in conjunction with the team’s success.” — Lothar Matthäus
Kane has reinvented the striker’s role
Matthäus compared Kane’s evolution to other footballing revolutions in Bayern’s history, highlighting his ability to redefine what a striker can be.
“Robert Lewandowski won the Champions League with Bayern in 2020 and was later named World Player of the Year, but the two aren’t comparable. Kane reinvented the centre-forward game, just as Manuel Neuer did with goalkeepers about a decade and a half ago.” — Lothar Matthäus
He added: “Kane is 32, and his contract runs until 2027. I would extend his contract as soon as possible.”
A true professional and leader
Beyond his technical excellence, Matthäus praised Kane’s professionalism and character, noting that his mentality and humility make him an ideal figure for Bayern’s long-term vision.
“Kane is a consummate professional and has the right mentality. He doesn’t make headlines off the pitch; he’s down-to-earth and lives and loves football.” — Lothar Matthäus
A legend’s blueprint for Bayern’s future
Matthäus’ assessment reflects the admiration within Germany for Kane’s seamless adaptation to the Bundesliga. His column is also a message to Bayern’s management: secure your leader, reinforce the defense with Schlotterbeck, and build a team that can conquer Europe once again.
Keywords: Lothar Matthäus, Harry Kane, Bayern Munich, Nico Schlotterbeck, Ballon d’Or, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Vincent Kompany, Sky Sport Germany, Bundesliga