Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane practiced on Monday and is expected to play against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinal on Tuesday.
Kane had missed the Bundesliga match against Freiburg on Saturday due to a minor ankle injury sustained during training with the England national team.
He participated in training in Munich prior to the team’s departure to Madrid for the match at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany will make a final decision on Kane’s participation on game day.
Kompany’s Decision on Kane
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany expressed the importance of Kane’s training session, stating, “It was important that he did a lot of training today. I don’t think he’s lost his rhythm. We’ll wait until tomorrow and then decide … We have a great squad and are ready for the two legs.”
Praise from Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior
Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior acknowledged Kane’s skills, saying, “He is a goal-scorer. He is a great player. But Bayern is a great team and has many players who switch positions and make it difficult for us. Whoever plays it will be tough.”
Kimmich’s View on Kane’s Role
Bayern defender Joshua Kimmich emphasized Kane’s significance to the team, stating, “He’s not just a finisher. He’s an absolute leader, a role model. He has a special mindset for an attacking player. If he plays, his leadership qualities will be important.”
Historical Context of the Matchup
Bayern Munich eliminated Atalanta in the previous round, while Real Madrid overcame Manchester City. Kompany remarked on the challenge ahead, saying, “It’s perhaps the toughest away game you can play, but we want to win.” This matchup marks the sixth time Madrid and Bayern have faced each other in the knockout stages over the last 14 seasons, with Madrid winning four of the previous encounters.
Arbeloa’s Respect for Bayern
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa conveyed his respect for Bayern, stating, “Bayern is an unbelievable team. We have a lot of respect for them. They’re having an exceptional season. Bayern has been the most consistent side in Europe this season. They’re fearless, aggressive, very focused defensively, with an unbelievable striker in Harry Kane.”
Recent Performances
Bayern Munich remains unbeaten in its last 13 games across all competitions, with 11 victories. In contrast, Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat against Mallorca on Saturday, which has impacted their La Liga title aspirations.
Arbeloa’s Determination
Arbeloa remained resolute about the upcoming match, stating, “We don’t think about not winning the tie and there is only one possible scenario, which is to beat Bayern and get through the tie. It’s the only thing we want and the only thing we believe in.” He also addressed recent criticisms of Kylian Mbappé, emphasizing the player’s dedication to the club.