Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane emphasised on Tuesday the importance of leveraging Manchester United's ongoing struggles to their advantage.
However, he also conceded that Erik ten Hag's struggling Manchester United side could pose a significant threat in their upcoming Champions League opener.
Kane, the captain of the England national team, is poised to make his Champions League debut for Bayern Munich on Wednesday, following his transfer from Tottenham during the close season. Manchester United, on the other hand, has been grappling with off-field issues and has suffered three defeats in their first five Premier League matches, including a humiliating 3-1 loss at home to Brighton on Saturday.
Addressing the media in a pre-match press conference, Kane stressed the need to capitalise on the circumstances surrounding Manchester United's recent difficulties. Bayern Munich, currently unbeaten in the Bundesliga, sits just behind Bayer Leverkusen in the standings based on goal difference.
While acknowledging Manchester United's challenging period, Kane also warned that such situations can make a team particularly dangerous as they strive for a strong response. He urged caution in facing their opponent.
In the upcoming match, Kane will face his England teammate Harry Maguire, who has faced severe criticism for his recent performances. Despite this, Kane defended Maguire, describing him as one of the best defenders in England's history and a close friend. However, he emphasised that their friendship would be set aside for the 90 minutes on the field.
During his time at Tottenham, Kane accumulated 32 appearances in the Champions League and scored 21 goals in the competition. He took a moment to acknowledge his former club's impressive start to the Premier League season under the management of Ange Postecoglou and expressed his happiness at seeing Tottenham's fans content.
Bayern Munich's coach, Thomas Tuchel, praised Harry Kane as a "difference-maker" and commended his leadership qualities since joining the team. Tuchel acknowledged the rumours surrounding Bayern's acquisition of Kane but refrained from commenting, simply labelling the transfer "a huge deal." He pointed out that they had successfully secured the captain of the England national team and removed him from the Premier League, a decision that left Bayern Munich very pleased with their acquisition.