Harry Kane of German Bundesliga club Bayern Munich has secured the prestigious Golden Shoe award, recognizing him as the top scorer in European football for the 2023-24 season.
In his first season with Bayern, Kane dazzled fans by netting an impressive 45 goals in 47 games across all competitions. This remarkable feat makes him the first English striker to win the Golden Shoe since Kevin Phillips in 2000. Additionally, Kane joins the elite ranks of Gerd MĂĽller and Robert Lewandowski, making him the third player to achieve this honor while donning the Munich-based club's jersey.
Expressing his gratitude, Kane stated at the ceremony held at the Allianz Arena, \"It’s a fantastic feeling. I can only thank the club, my teammates. The award is for everyone – without you I wouldn’t be standing here.\"
The Golden Shoe, introduced after the 1967-68 campaign, originally awarded the top scorer from any European league. In 1997, the criteria were adjusted to favor players competing in higher-regarded leagues.
Kane follows in the footsteps of Erling Haaland of Manchester City and iconic players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have previously claimed the award multiple times.
\"It is something special that I am now mentioned in the same breath as these names,\" Kane remarked, highlighting his place among football's elite.
Despite Kane’s outstanding individual performance, he continues to chase his first club-level trophy. Bayern Munich’s streak of consecutive Bundesliga titles concluded at eleven last season. Kane emphasized the importance of team success, saying, \"I want to continue on as I started last season, but it is important to win titles. We want to achieve success as a team.\"
Looking ahead, Kane is optimistic about the new season, sensing a renewed energy within the team and eagerly anticipating future achievements.
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Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane receives European Golden Shoe award
cgtn.com
