Bayern criticized for spending 100 million euros on Harry Kane: “They should invest…”
Austria national team coach Ralf Rangnick has raised eyebrows with a bold statement criticizing Bayern Munich’s record-breaking €100 million investment in Harry Kane. In an interview with Sport, the experienced manager claimed that spending such an amount on a 29-year-old striker is “too risky” and compares it to gambling at a casino.
A Record Signing That Divides Opinions
When Bayern Munich secured Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur in August 2023, it marked the most expensive signing in the club’s history, with the transfer costing around €100 million (R$538 million).
While the English striker has delivered on the pitch, Rangnick remains unconvinced that the move was financially wise:
“If I were a sporting director, I would only sign young players. That’s the only sensible path for a club’s long-term future,” said Rangnick.
“Spending that much on a player nearing 30 is like putting €130 million on red or black at the roulette table.”
Kane’s Performance at Bayern: Undeniable Numbers
Since arriving in Munich, Harry Kane has been prolific:
- 83 goals
- 26 assists
- In just 93 appearances
Despite these elite-level stats, Rangnick argues that financial return should weigh more than short-term performance:
“Even with these numbers, clubs will never recover that kind of money. The resale value simply isn’t there for older players,” he noted.
Rangnick’s Youth-First Philosophy
Ralf Rangnick is renowned for his focus on youth development and long-term project building a legacy that helped shape RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim into Bundesliga mainstays. Now leading Austria, he’s continued to elevate young talents on the international stage.
Since 2022, his record with Austria includes:
- 20 wins
- 7 draws
- 9 losses
- Rapid development of a new generation of Austrian footballers
Rangnick was even a candidate to take over Bayern before Vincent Kompany was appointed, and maintains a close relationship with club legend Uli Hoeneß. However, the two seem to differ drastically on this topic.
“It’s Not About Kane — It’s About the Strategy”
While Rangnick praised Harry Kane’s footballing ability, his point was broader:
“I’m not saying Kane isn’t a top player. I just believe in signing a Harry Kane when he’s 18 not when he’s almost 30,” he explained.
