Serge Gnabry Champions Harry Kane for Ballon d'Or Ahead of Bayern vs Arsenal Clash

Serge Gnabry, winger for Bayern Munich, has expressed his strong belief that teammate Harry Kane deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year. His comments came ahead of Bayern's Champions League match against Arsenal, Kane’s former club.

Backing a Prolific Scorer

The German international highlighted Kane’s impressive scoring record and leadership qualities as reasons why he should claim football's top individual prize. Kane has scored an incredible 61 goals for Bayern, helping secure last season's Bundesliga title and captained England to the World Cup semifinals against Argentina.

Strong Start to 2026-27 Season

Kane continues his form this season, netting nine goals and providing six assists in just 10 appearances across all competitions. His three goals in two Champions League games have kept Bayern level with Borussia Dortmund at the top of the Bundesliga standings with 14 points.

"He’s shown it time and time again, how valuable he is. How much he has improved since coming here - an incredible player. Very deserving," said Gnabry. "I don’t know who decides the markers on who deserves to win that trophy, but he has had an incredible year. He’s still in great form, still scoring a lot of goals, so valuable to our team. I would wish it for him, he deserves that trophy."

On playing alongside Kane, Gnabry added: "He scores a lot of goals. The right mindset, he’s always in the game, focused. In that sense, a calm through the storm, and sets the bar high."

Facing Former Club Arsenal

Wednesday’s match also brings a reunion for Gnabry, who left Arsenal in 2016 after limited chances under Arsene Wenger. After moves to Werder Bremen and a loan at TSG Hoffenheim, he settled at Bayern Munich. Now, he faces Arsenal managed by Mikel Arteta, a former teammate during his time in North London.

"It wasn’t an easy project. For him to last that long, to have that success, and make them champions again, is a very big achievement. Probably a bigger achievement than some achievements by bigger coaches," Gnabry said about Arteta’s work with Arsenal. "I’ve played for the club, so in some ways I’m happy for them, but of course, tomorrow, I’m playing for Bayern Munich. They’re my current club, and we need to win tomorrow."

Looking Ahead to Ballon d'Or Ceremony

Following the Champions League clash, the spotlight will turn to the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony on Monday, October 26. Kane’s chances of lifting the golden ball are strong, and discussions about his long-term future at Bayern are expected soon. His current contract runs until summer 2027, with a renewal widely anticipated.

• Next matches:
• Arsenal (Premier League): 24 Oct 2026, 17:00
• SC Freiburg (Bundesliga): 25 Oct 2026, 18:30