Michael Owen Criticizes Harry Kane’s Move to Bayern Munich

Former Liverpool and England striker Michael Owen has expressed strong disapproval of Harry Kane’s decision to join Bayern Munich instead of remaining at Tottenham to pursue the Premier League’s all-time top goal scorer record. Owen described Kane’s choice as “nuts,” emphasizing that moving to Germany two years ago was a questionable move, especially when Kane was close to breaking Alan Shearer’s Premier League goalscoring record.

Kane, 32, departed Tottenham after a 19-year stint in the summer of 2023, seeking his first major trophy and signing for Bayern. Despite some criticism, Kane has thrived in Germany, scoring nearly a goal per game with 91 goals in 100 appearances and winning his first senior silverware last season, leading Bayern to Bundesliga glory.

Owen, speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, highlighted his frustration at Kane’s move, pointing out that Kane was just 48 goals shy of the Premier League record and could have become its all-time best if he had stayed in England. Owen also mentioned Kane’s family relocating to Germany, which he views as a reason Kane should have stayed in London instead.

Although Kane achieved success and a trophy in Bavaria, Owen believes this does not compare to the significance of surpassing the Premier League scoring record. He argued that Kane missed an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in English football, stating, “If you’re that desperate to win something, then do another year and then go. Moving to Celtic and winning league titles every year lacks the same achievement.”

Despite Owen’s reservations, Kane’s career in Germany has been impressive, with the striker expressing that winning his first major trophy meant more than any individual awards. Kane’s presence off the pitch was significant, with his family celebrating alongside him after winning the Bundesliga title.

While Owen praised Kane’s footballing ability—calling him “lethal” and “brave under pressure”—he maintained that Kane’s decision to leave England was a missed opportunity to set a historic record and achieve greater legacy in Premier League history.