Harry Kane: The Evolution of Strikers in World Football
England and Bayern Munich star Harry Kane has weighed in on the shifting landscape of modern football, admitting that the sport is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly with regards to the traditional role of the number nine forward. In an insightful interview with TNT Sports Brazil, Kane pinpointed the profound impact of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s illustrious careers on the changing nature of the game.
Kane, a prolific goal-scorer himself, believes that the remarkable success of Messi and Ronaldo, who have dominated world football for over a decade, has led to a shift in the way young players approach the game. "The game is changing a little bit," Kane observed. "The way coaching is now [means] a lot of players grow up wanting to be wingers, as they’re drawn to the style of play exhibited by the likes of Messi and Ronaldo, who have thrived in those positions."
Noting the influence of these two football icons, Kane recalled his own formative years, when he was inspired by some of the greatest strikers in the world. "When I was growing up, I had some of the best strikers in the world to watch, so I wanted to be a No. 9," he said. "However, I think some managers now opt for a false nine or a nine-and-a-half/10 position, which has contributed to the decline of traditional number nines."
Kane, who has established himself as one of the most feared centre-forwards in the world, thinks it’s a shame that there aren’t more conventional strikers emerging. "Scoring goals is the hardest thing in football, so I would like to see more No. 9s coming through," he lamented. "While it’s true that the sport is constantly evolving, with trends coming and going, I believe there will always be a place for the traditional number nine."
The 31-year-old’s own playing style has been shaped by his idols, including Ronaldo Nazario, a Brazilian legend who won two World Cups and is renowned for his exceptional finishing ability, pace, and movement. "I think we’re totally different players in the way we play, but ultimately, the way he used to finish was as good as anyone," Kane said. "His dribbling ability, movement, and goalscoring record are an inspiration to me and many other strikers."
As a centre-forward, Kane has consistently delivered outstanding performances for both club and country, with an impressive record of 36 Bundesliga goals in his debut season with Bayern Munich. His admiration for the great strikers of the past is evident in his own playing style, which has earned him widespread acclaim.
Despite the evolution of the game, Kane believes that the art of scoring goals remains the most challenging aspect of football. As the sport continues to adapt and innovate, it will be fascinating to see how the role of the traditional number nine evolves in response.
