Harry Kane has officially joined Bayern Munich, ending one of the longest transfer sagas of the summer and his nearly 20-year association with Tottenham Hotspur.
The English striker had been at Tottenham since he was eleven years, rising up the ranks to become the club’s captain and record scorer.
But his time at Spurs didn’t yield any trophies, and after a series of failed attempts at leaving the club, the 30-year-old has finally had his wish and joins Bayern Munich on an initial four-year deal.
The Bavarians will pay Tottenham Β£100m after making it clear that Kane was their number on target to fill the vacant number 9 position.
What Harry Kane said
“I’m very happy to be a part of FC Bayern now,” Kane told the club’s website.
“Bayern is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and I’ve always said that I want to compete and prove myself at the highest level during my career. This club is defined by its winning mentality – it feels very good to be here.”
FC Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen: “It’s been a long process, but now we’re all the happier that Harry Kane will be wearing the Bayern Munich shirt with immediate effect. Harry Kane was our absolute dream player right from the start. He is a perfect fit for us and the club’s DNA in terms of both football and character. World-class centre forwards have always been an important factor when FC Bayern has celebrated its greatest triumphs, and we’re convinced that Harry Kane will continue this success story. Our fans can look forward to one of the best goalscorers of our time.”
FC Bayern president Herbert Hainer: “Welcome to Munich, Harry Kane! We’re very happy about this top-quality new arrival. The transfer required tenacity, bite and perseverance – my compliments to all those involved in these negotiations at FC Bayern, led by our CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen. Harry Kane will not only strengthen FC Bayern but also be a real asset to the entire Bundesliga.”
Kane played 435 competitive games for Spurs and scored 280 goals, making him the club’s record goalscorer. The English striker was the Premier League’s top scorer in 2016, 2017 and 2021 and has the second-highest total in league history after Alan Shearer.Β
From the Academy to our all-time record goalscorer π€ pic.twitter.com/gLgl4DK24r
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 12, 2023
In a farewell message to Tottenham, Kane said it was the right time to leave the club – but added this may not be goodbye forever.
In a video posted on social media, Kane said:
“I’m sad to be leaving the club I’ve spent nearly 20 years of my life at, from an 11-year-old boy to a 30-year-old man. There have been so many great moments and special memories that I will cherish forever.
“I felt this was the time to leave. I didn’t want to go into the season with a lot of unresolved future talk. I think it’s important for the new manager and the players to concentrate on trying to get Tottenham to around the top of the table and fighting for trophies.
Hard to put into words how to say goodbye to a club and fans who have done so much for me in my career. You will always be in my heart. Thank you Tottenham, thank you Tottenham fans. π pic.twitter.com/L662cyax7p
— Harry Kane (@HKane) August 12, 2023
“I wish Ange and the boys all the very best of luck. Obviously, I will be watching from a fan’s point of view now, and I really hope the team can be successful.
“This is a message to all you fans around the world; every single Tottenham fan has supported and been with me throughout my journey. Me and my family will cherish it forever. We’ll never forget all the moments we’ve had together, so thank you. I’ll be watching the season.
“Good luck to Tottenham and the whole club. It’s not a goodbye because you never know how things pan out in the future. Thank you, and see you soon.”
π¬ Action! FC Bayern proudly presents πππππ ππππ. #ServusHarry #FCBayern pic.twitter.com/0xV49t2z29
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) August 12, 2023
Harry Kane will wear the number 9 jersey at Bayern Munich. He is expected to make his Bayern debut later on Saturday when the Bavarians take on RB Leipzig in the German Super Cup.
