Herbert Hainer Backs Harry Kane Over Michael Olise for Ballon d’Or
Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has backed Harry Kane for the Ballon d’Or ahead of team-mate Michael Olise, while insisting both players have earned a place in the conversation.
Hainer believes Kane’s experience, record-breaking impact since joining from Tottenham Hotspur and central role in Bayern’s attack give the England captain the narrow edge. But he also sees Olise as a future winner of football’s top individual award — potentially as soon as this year.
Quick facts
- Hainer would select Harry Kane if choosing between Bayern’s two Ballon d’Or contenders.
- Michael Olise, 24, is viewed by Bayern as one of the game’s leading players.
- Bayern reached the Champions League semi-finals and faced Paris Saint-Germain in standout ties.
- Hainer says Bayern are under no pressure to sell players amid links between Olise and Real Madrid.
Kane and Olise have both been in exceptional form in Germany, prompting growing recognition for the pair in Ballon d’Or discussions. Hainer said each had the level to claim the prize, but his vote would go to Kane.
The Bayern chief made clear that his choice should not be read as a slight on Olise. He expects the French winger to have plenty of opportunities to win the award over the coming years and believes his development has already put him among the world’s elite.
Olise has settled quickly since leaving Crystal Palace and has become a major attacking figure at the Allianz Arena. Hainer rejected any suggestion that the winger needs a transfer away from the Bundesliga to reach the very top.
He said Olise is happy in Munich, where he can compete for trophies and play at the highest European level. Bayern’s run to the Champions League semi-finals, including their matches with PSG, was presented as evidence of the platform available to him.
Real Madrid have repeatedly been mentioned as a possible destination for Olise as his reputation grows. Hainer, however, stressed that Bayern make transfer decisions from a position of strength and will not be pushed into selling their key players.
