FC Bayern forward Harry Kane expects to finalize a contract extension with the German club in the coming days, stating discussions are “extremely close” as the team prepares for a UEFA Champions League fixture against Atlético Madrid. Speaking at a press conference in Madrid on Monday evening, Kane addressed both his impending renewal and a growing injury crisis that has depleted the squad ahead of the European tie.
Contract talks near finish line
Negotiations regarding Kane’s contract extension have progressed steadily over recent months, reaching a decisive stage ahead of Tuesday’s match at the Estadio Metropolitano. “We are extremely close,” Kane told reporters, noting that another positive conversation had recently taken place. “Hopefully in the next few days” an announcement could follow, according to the forward. Addressing his late recognition in England, Kane stated: The people who understand football have always understood my game.
Harry Kane has agreed a new contract in principle at FC Bayern His new deal will take him until 2029 at the German champions.It’s understood Bayern are now finalising the paperwork on his contract extension[@MichaelBridge_] pic.twitter.com/MfILD211fs
Injury crisis deepens in Madrid
The impending contract news arrives while FC Bayern manages a severe shortage of personnel, compounded by the absence of Vincent Kompany due to meningeal irritation. Sporting Director Max Eberl confirmed prior to the team’s departure that Ismael Saibari sustained a torn syndesmosis in his ankle during Saturday’s 2–2 draw against Borussia Dortmund and will miss three to four months, while Serge Gnabry will be sidelined until Christmas with a muscle injury, alongside ongoing absences for Jamal Musiala and Luis Díaz.
Danks offered no clarity on the starting lineup, particularly regarding who will fill the number-ten role vacated by the injuries, with Nathaniel Brown and Lennart Karl emerging as primary options. Danks also declined to confirm whether Manuel Neuer and Michael Olise—both of whom participated in the final training session—would feature from the start. Commenting on the team’s personnel uncertainty, Kane remarked: I have no idea who will play tomorrow.
Champions League stakes at the Metropolitano
Tuesday’s fixture places Bayern against an Atlético Madrid side that Kane praised for its tactical evolution under manager Diego Simeone. Beyond traditional defensive solidity and physical intensity, Kane noted that the Spanish hosts have improved significantly in possession, creating a dangerous attacking threat. Following two draws, Bayern enters the match aiming to secure a victory that boosts their chances of finishing inside the top eight and avoiding the knockout round playoffs.
Danks rejected the notion that the recent results placed undue pressure on the squad. Pointing to Paris Saint-Germain’s past Champions League triumph without a top-eight league finish, Danks maintained that confidence within the dressing room remains high despite the mounting injuries.
Related reading
