Too good for the Bundesliga? England legend criticizes Kane for his move to Bayern | OneFootball

Harry Kane did almost everything right from a sporting perspective with his move to FC Bayern. Yet even three years later, there are still critics. Former England star Michael Owen still can’t understand the striker’s decision to this day.

When Harry Kane left Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2023 to join FC Bayern, the move made major headlines internationally. After many years in the Premier League, the Englishman took the plunge and moved abroad for the first time—and was initially met with skepticism.

In retrospect, however, the move has paid off on the field.

Kane has since won several domestic titles with Bayern Munich, has emerged as the undisputed leader of the team, and remains one of the best strikers in the world. The only thing missing from the 32-year-old’s resume so far is a Champions League triumph.

Not everyone, however, shares the view that the move to Munich was the right decision.

Owen Can’t Understand the Move to Bayern

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Michael Owen was critical of his compatriot’s career decision. “My only criticism of Harry is his move to Bayern Munich. I said it back then, and I haven’t changed my mind,” explained the former Liverpool and England striker.

Owen made it explicitly clear, however, that his criticism does not pertain to Kane’s athletic ability. “I understand the advantages, and hopefully England will see that in the coming weeks. His all-around game is so mature—the way he gets into midfield and initiates attacks, as well as the way he finishes them.”

For Owen, the problem lies more with the league itself. “But in terms of his career, he’s better than the Bundesliga,” said the former Ballon d’Or winner.

The 45-year-old explained his assessment by pointing to the balance of power in German soccer.

“I’ve been watching the league more closely now because of Harry, and aside from Bayern, it’s very average. Week after week, he plays for a team that dominates possession, dominates the field, and creates chance after chance. Of course he scores goals.”

Premier League record as a missed opportunity

Photo: IMAGO

In Owen’s view, Kane should have preferred to continue his career in England.

Above all, the former national team player considers the record as the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer to be far more significant than a move abroad. “I still think it would have been the greater achievement to become the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer. He would have deserved it.”

According to Owen, once his contract with Tottenham expired, Kane would also have had his pick of Europe’s top clubs.

“He would also have had his pick of clubs once his Tottenham contract had expired.”

The striker himself, however, is unlikely to regret his decision.

Kane has felt extremely at home in Munich since his move and has repeatedly emphasized that at FC Bayern he has found exactly the sporting conditions he was looking for.

With numerous goals, several titles, and the prospect of continuing to compete for the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or, there’s plenty of evidence so far that the move to Germany has paid off for the England national team captain.

Michael Owen’s criticism is unlikely to change that much.