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Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been voted Germany’s 2026 Player of the Year by the Association of German Sports Journalists, becoming the first Englishman to receive the prestigious award.
The England captain finished ahead of Bayern teammate Michael Olise after a remarkable season in which he helped the Bavarian club secure the Bundesliga and German Cup titles. Bayern also reached the semi-finals of the Champions League, further strengthening Kane’s case for the individual honour.
Kane was central to Bayern’s success, scoring 61 goals in all competitions during the season. His form continued on the international stage, with the striker scoring six goals as England reached the World Cup semi-finals before losing to Argentina.
The award adds to a growing list of individual honours for Kane, who has established himself as one of the leading forwards in European football since joining Bayern.
Bayern sporting director Max Eberl praised the striker’s impact, saying: “It’s almost impossible to find the right superlatives to describe Harry Kane – sometimes I’m at a loss for words.”
Eberl added that Kane had already been recognised as England’s Footballer of the Year before receiving the same honour in Germany.
“He’s already been named England’s Footballer of the Year, and now he’s also won it in Germany,” Eberl said.
Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany was also recognised, winning the Coach of the Year award, while Bayern women’s captain Giulia Gwinn was named the country’s best female player.
The awards are decided by 695 members of the German sports journalists association. Bundesliga players and German footballers based abroad are eligible for the honours.
At 33, Kane becomes the first English player to win the award. Olise finished second for the second consecutive year, having also placed behind Florian Wirtz in 2025.
Kane’s latest recognition could further strengthen his position among the leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which will be presented in London in October.
