Having recently clinched the first major title of his career, Harry Kane and Bayern Munich are gearing up for the Club World Cup in the United States, aiming for more than just another trophy.
After enduring years of teasing about his lack of team silverware throughout a 15-year career, despite accumulating numerous individual accolades, the 31-year-old striker finally tasted success when Bayern secured the Bundesliga title this season.
A victory at the Club World Cup would not only add another accolade to Bayern’s impressive collection but also prove to be financially rewarding for the German club.
To encourage club participation in the expanded tournament, FIFA has assembled a staggering $1 billion prize pool, with the winning team set to receive a cool $125 million.
Like many of the prominent European teams in the tournament, Bayern are facing a relatively straightforward path in the group stages.
The Bavarians will take on Auckland City in Cincinnati on Sunday, followed by matches against Boca Juniors in Miami and Benfica in Charlotte to complete the group stage.
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‘One of the contenders’
As a member-run club, Bayern may boast financial might that eclipses all but a few European rivals, yet the potential earnings from the Club World Cup could prove crucial in an unpredictable period for the club.
After reclaiming the Bundesliga title this season from Bayer Leverkusen, who broke an 11-year Bavarian dominance last year, Bayern are poised for a summer rebuild.
Typically the prime destination for top German talent, Bayern faced disappointment as highly sought-after midfielder Florian Wirtz opted for a move to Premier League side Liverpool instead.
With veteran Thomas Muller set to depart after the Club World Cup and winger duo Leroy Sane and Kingsley Coman also rumoured to be leaving, Bayern will need to recruit fresh attacking talent during the upcoming transfer window.
On the defensive front, Eric Dier has left the squad, while Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, and Hiroki Ito have struggled with long-term injuries recently.
However, the free-agent signings of Jonathan Tah, a centre-back, and midfielder Tom Bischof, both previously released by Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim respectively, have addressed two important gaps for the club, and at relatively low costs.
Both players were brought in on nominal fees to facilitate their participation in the tournament.
After netting two goals in two matches for England against Andorra and Senegal, Kane travels to the US with hopes of securing yet another trophy.
“We’re definitely one of the favourites. This season has shown just what kind of team we are,” Kane remarked in an interview with Germany’s TZ newspaper on Wednesday.
“On our day, we’re capable of overcoming any opponent in the world.”
Kane emphasised that the players are “taking the tournament seriously and preparing well,” despite the demanding season they’ve endured.
“It’s a new format featuring the best teams globally. I’m thrilled to be part of it as it’s an exhilarating opportunity.”
‘Ready for battle’
While Kane may only have one team title to his name, his striking partner Muller is on the verge of becoming the most decorated German footballer in history.
Currently tied with 34 team trophies alongside retired Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos, Muller can surpass his former teammate by winning a third Club World Cup.
The veteran, who won the tournament in 2014 and 2021 during its previous lesser format, is determined to achieve further success.
Muller, 35, expressed his desire to remain at Bayern after 25 years with the club, remarking in April that the decision to part ways was at the club’s discretion. Nonetheless, he has not let this uncertainty overshadow his farewell season.
In a social media video shared as Bayern departed for the United States, Muller stated: “Of course, we aim to win this title.”
“We’re ready for battle. Full throttle for the championship. Let’s go, FC Bayern.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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