Kane opens crunch time for Bayern's title hunt

Bayern Munich's emphatic 5-1 win over Hoffenheim has taken the Bavarians into what striker Harry Kane described as the decisive phase of the 2025/26 season.

Kane scored twice and has now netted 24 goals in 21 Bundesliga appearances, along with seven assists, setting the tone for what promises to be a demanding stretch across all competitions.

Harry Kane (R) of Bayern Munich shoots during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Bayern Munich and VfB Stuttgart in Munich, Germany, Oct. 19, 2024. (Photo by Philippe Ruiz/Xinhua)

"From now on, it counts," the 32-year-old said after Sunday's three points, with Bayern preparing for a German Cup quarterfinal against RB Leipzig on Wednesday and the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League in mid-March.

After two winless league matches, Bayern restored a six-point lead at the top, underlining the importance of building momentum as the season moves into its decisive weeks.

Head coach Vincent Kompany said the club is not prioritizing one competition over another.

"We don't see one title above the others," the former Manchester City defender said. "All are important, and we want as many as possible."

Alongside Kane's brace, Luis Diaz scored three goals and added two assists as Bayern lifted their league total to 79 goals after 21 rounds.

For Kompany, the display was about more than attacking output.

"They don't stop when things seem done; they continue until the final minutes," he said, describing the mindset required at this stage of the campaign.

The 39-year-old likened the run-in to "a tunnel you have to enter," adding that his playing career taught him what it takes "when you reach the final stages and have to win something."

With Stuttgart and Leverkusen already through to the German Cup semifinals, Bayern and Leipzig will decide the last remaining spot over the next two days, adding further pressure to an already congested schedule.

Off the pitch, Bayern have also moved to strengthen stability. The club recently extended winger Serge Gnabry's contract until 2028, while negotiations with French defender Dayot Upamecano are nearing completion.

Although the contract has not yet been signed, chairman Jan-Christian Dreesen said a full agreement has been reached after months of talks.

"If there is trust and a clear yes from both sides, the timing of the final signature doesn't really matter," Dreesen said.

Media reports have cited figures of around 20 million euros per season, a signing bonus spread across the contract, and a potential exit clause in 2027.

Kompany said he remains relaxed about both sporting and contractual matters, noting that initial discussions have also taken place regarding Kane's longer-term future in Munich.

The message from Bayern's camp is clear: as the season enters its defining phase, the club intends to stay focused on all fronts, with the Bundesliga, the German Cup and the Champions League all firmly in view.