In his Ballon d’Or speech, Harry Kane talked about almost every manager he’s had in his amazing career—except for just three.
Harry Kane forgot to mention three of his former managers in his 12-minute Ballon d’Or acceptance speech – but who were they?
After scoring 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern in the 2025/26 season, Kane earned the 70th Ballon d’Or at the London Palladium Theatre on Monday night (October 26). Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal came in second and third.
Kane’s goals helped Vincent Kompany’s Bayern win the domestic double last season, and he also helped England finish third in the 2026 World Cup.
Lots of Spurs, Bayern, and England fans have thanked Kane for all he’s done over the years. The 33-year-old made sure to name important people during his 12-minute speech.
“Wow, wow, wow. I’m almost lost for words,” Kane started. “I feel lucky to be here. First, thanks to France Football and the Ballon d’Or for this amazing event. Being in London makes it even more special, so thank you.
“Thanks to everyone who voted. I know it was a tough choice with so many great players, including my own teammates and other world-class players here tonight. Congrats to all the winners and nominees – it really shows what hard work and determination can do.
“I’ve got a few Bayern teammates here tonight: Michael [Olise], Upa [Dayot Upamecano], Lucho [Luis Díaz], and Lenny [Lennart Karl]. I couldn’t have done this without you guys. Training with you, especially my battles with Upa, makes me want to get better every day.
“To Vinnie [Vincent Kompany], I know you’re probably at home or maybe still in the hospital, so I hope this gives you some energy. You and all the staff push us hard, and it means a lot. Since joining, I’ve grown as a player, a leader, and as a person – thanks to your leadership.”
Kane also thanked England’s current head coach Thomas Tuchel, then spoke about Spurs, where he started as an 11-year-old.
He gave a shout-out to his academy coaches Bradley Allen, Chris Ramsey, John McDermott, Alex Inglethorpe, Tim Sherwood, and Ryan Mason, plus managers Kenny Jackett, Russell Slade, Harry Redknapp, Mauricio Pochettino, José Mourinho, Antonio Conte, Roy Hodgson, and Gareth Southgate.
Kane said, “Each of you played a big part in my journey, and without you, I wouldn’t be here today. Being around great people and coaches helps you grow on and off the pitch, so thank you.”
However, Kane didn’t mention former Spurs boss Nuno Espírito Santo, André Villas-Boas, who gave him his Premier League debut in 2012, or former England manager Sam Allardyce, though Kane apologized just in case he forgot anyone.
“I want to thank all my coaches who helped me along the way, and if I forgot anyone, I’m really sorry,” Kane said.
Now, Kane will focus on Bayern’s DFB-Pokal second-round game against Magdeburg tomorrow (October 28).

