Golden Shoe winner Harry Kane sets sights on Ballon d’Or

After a remarkable season capped by a second European Golden Shoe, Harry Kane has set his sights on the biggest individual prize in football—the Ballon d’Or.

The England and Bayern Munich striker scored 73 goals for club and country during the 2025-26 season, including 36 in the Bundesliga, to claim the European Golden Shoe for the second time. His goals played a key role in Bayern’s Bundesliga and German Cup triumphs, while the club also reached the Champions League semi-finals.

Kane was equally influential for England at the World Cup, scoring six goals as the team advanced to the semi-finals. England’s campaign ended with a 2-1 defeat to Argentina, but Kane remained one of his side’s standout performers throughout the tournament.

Speaking after receiving the Golden Shoe, Kane acknowledged the growing Ballon d’Or debate but said the final decision was beyond his control.

“I know people will talk about it until October,” Kane said, adding that he had done everything he could on the pitch to put himself in contention.

Kane described the past season as the best of his career, pointing to his achievements with both Bayern and England. He said the focus was now on continuing to perform rather than worrying about an award he cannot control.

Former England international Danny Mills believes the Ballon d’Or race is wide open. He considers Kane one of the most consistent players of the season but said it remains difficult to identify one player who has clearly stood above the rest across both club and international football.

Mills also suggested that Lionel Messi’s chances would have been stronger had Argentina won the World Cup. Their runners-up finish, he argued, could leave the door open for Kane and other contenders.

The 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, marking the first time the prestigious award will be presented outside Paris. Kane will face competition from several of Europe’s leading stars as he seeks the biggest individual honour of his career.