Luis Diaz Backs Harry Kane to Claim 2026 Ballon d’Or After Strong Bayern Display
Luis Diaz has voiced strong support for his Bayern Munich teammate Harry Kane, predicting the striker will win the 2026 Ballon d’Or following his outstanding performances for the Bundesliga giants.
DFB-Pokal Win Comes with Early Shock
Bayern Munich kicked off their defense of the DFB-Pokal with a 4-1 victory over second-tier side Osnabruck, although the match began with a surprise. Coach Vincent Kompany fielded a strong lineup including Kane, Diaz, Michael Olise, and Joshua Kimmich, determined not to underestimate their opponents from the 2. Bundesliga.
Osnabruck stunned Bayern early when Robin Meissner capitalized on a defensive error to score an impressive volley from 30 yards within five minutes. Yet, Bayern quickly regained control. Kane responded with a well-struck volley to equalize 13 minutes later, paving the way for a comfortable win. Goals from Tom Bischof, Olise, and a late penalty by Kane sealed Bayern’s progression to the next round.
Diaz Praises Kane’s Complete Skill Set
After the game, Diaz shared high praise for Kane’s all-around abilities and steady performance throughout the past year. “He’s the best in the world, without a doubt,” Diaz told ESPN. “He proved it last season and has maintained it for a long time. He can do everything. I admire him because he rarely makes mistakes.”
The Colombian winger also highlighted Kane’s team-first attitude: “He makes his teammates better, runs tirelessly, defends, scores, and can shoot from long distance.”
Kane’s Historic Season Bolsters Ballon d’Or Case
Kane’s credentials for football’s top individual award are hard to dispute after an extraordinary season. The England captain scored 73 goals and assisted 8 in just 65 matches for club and country.
This tally includes six goals at the 2026 World Cup, helping England secure third place. His goal total ranks as the second-best single-season haul since 2000, behind only Lionel Messi’s 82-goal record in 2011-12.
Diaz believes Kane’s remarkable form merits top honors: “His mentality is incredible. For me, he’s one of the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or. I hope he wins it so we can all celebrate with him.”
Bayern Eyes Continued Success in Domestic Competitions
With Kane already scoring in the new season, Bayern Munich aim to build momentum heading into their upcoming Bundesliga clash against Schalke, who have recently returned to the top division. Having netted nine goals across their last two outings, the Bavarians look poised to maintain their sharp attack before learning their next DFB-Pokal opponent.
- Upcoming Fixture: Schalke 04 vs Bayern Munich
- Date: 5 September 2026
- Time: 18:30
- Last DFB-Pokal Match: Osnabruck 1-4 Bayern Munich (6 September 2026)
- Next Bundesliga Match: Eintracht Braunschweig vs Bayern Munich (13:30)
