Harry Kane: Arsenal Rejection Left Me with a Point to Prove – It's in My DNA

In 20 senior appearances against Arsenal, Harry Kane has netted 15 goals

Harry Kane revealed that his childhood rejection by Arsenal fuels a perpetual drive within him to prove himself, a sentiment deeply ingrained in his character. Despite being released from Arsenal's academy at just nine years old, Kane now finds himself leading Bayern Munich's charge in the Champions League quarter-final against his former club.

For Kane, this season represents a crucial opportunity to secure silverware with Bayern. He acknowledges that failure to win a title would be seen as a disappointment for the club, emphasizing the need for players like himself to rise to the occasion.

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Having already notched a goal against Arsenal in the first leg, Kane is determined to guide Bayern to victory, particularly in front of their home supporters. While his rejection by Arsenal remains a part of his story, Kane insists that his focus is on Bayern's success in the Champions League rather than personal vindication.

Reflecting on his journey, Kane admits that moments of rejection have fueled his determination throughout his career. Although he doesn't dwell specifically on his past, he carries with him a constant desire to prove himself and succeed at the highest level.

With his experience reaching the Champions League final with Tottenham in 2019, Kane is driven by the memory of falling short on that occasion. It's a reminder that fuels his determination to go one step further and secure victory this time around.

Despite Harry Kane's remarkable individual success in Germany, where he has netted an impressive 39 goals this season, Bayern Munich's failure to clinch the league title has sparked deep reflection and criticism within the club. With Bayer Leverkusen clinching the league title, Bayern's focus has shifted to the Champions League as their last hope to salvage the season.

“We have a great opportunity tomorrow night, in front of our fans, to keep the season alive and keep some hope amongst the fans, hope that we can achieve something special even though it has not been the greatest of seasons,” said Kane.

“It is a time to raise our game, time for me and the players who have been in big-pressure situations to step up and be counted.

“Of course, from the club’s point of view it will be a failed season if we don’t win anything this year because we’re expected to win, but then all you can do is take that into next year and try to turn it around. We still have an opportunity to turn the season into a great season.”

During Bayern Munich's 2-2 draw at Arsenal, Kane converted another penalty at the Emirates Stadium

Bayern will face the upcoming game without wingers Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman. Departing head coach Thomas Tuchel seized the opportunity during his pre-match press conference to issue a rallying cry to the club's supporters.

“It is important that each fan comes with a readiness to push the team and support the team,” said Tuchel. “We need this extraordinary support. We need this extra percentage against Arsenal to win against them.

“We need to play to our limit and we need every single fan to fight with us. Then we will see what happens. We feel ready.”

Tuchel acknowledges Bayern's wealth of experience at this level, hoping it will provide a critical edge. However, he cautions that Arsenal, assuming the role of "hunters" in Munich, could pose a significant threat.

“I think we have the slight advantage of experience in our team,” said Tuchel. “We have players who have won it, we have players who have played decisive matches in this competition.

“It can also sometimes be an advantage not to have the experience and have the role as contenders, the role as a hunter. That can be for Arsenal.”

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