Harry Kane named Germany player of the year after 61-goal season

Harry Kane named Germany player of the year after 61-goal season

Harry Kane has been named Germany's player of the year for 2026, Kicker magazine announced Sunday. The Bayern Munich striker collected 272 votes from the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS), outpolling teammate Michael Olise who finished with 203. Stuttgart forward Deniz Undav took 61 votes, while Joshua Kimmich and others trailed behind.

Kane's landmark campaign saw him find the net 61 times across all competitions last season. The England captain helped Bayern defend their Bundesliga title and secure the German Cup, scoring a hat trick in the cup final. His form continued into the new campaign, with Kane also contributing to Bayern's German Supercup victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, though he was not on the scoresheet in that 2-1 win.

What does Kane's player of the year award mean for Bayern's title defence?

The accolade caps a remarkable 2025-26 campaign for Kane, who has been the focal point of Bayern's attack since his move from Tottenham Hotspur. His 61-goal haul across all competitions represents one of the most prolific scoring seasons in recent German top-flight history, and the award confirms his status as the league's premier forward ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Kane and Kompany honoured after outstanding season

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany also received recognition, winning the coach's accolade alongside his star player. The Belgian manager guided the Bavarians to another domestic double last term, and the double honour for boss and star player underscores the squad's dominance.

Rising stars and other nominees

The voting panel also recognised other top performers. Stuttgart's Deniz Undav impressed with 61 votes, while Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich featured among the nominees. Michael Olise's strong debut season earned him 203 votes, finishing as runner-up in the prestigious vote that has been a staple of German football since the 1990s.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Harry Kane named Germany player of the year with 272 votes from VDS members
• Striker scored 61 goals across all competitions for Bayern Munich last season
• Kane helped Bayern defend Bundesliga title and win German Cup last campaign
• Manager Vincent Kompany also honoured with coach of the year award

Data: Kicker magazine VDS polls, 2026

Harry Kane's player of the year award follows a season where he was the driving force behind Bayern Munich's domestic success. The England international will be looking to build on this individual recognition as his side aims for a third consecutive Bundesliga title in the 2026-27 campaign, with fixtures already scheduled ahead of the new season.