Harry Kane and the Leadership Debate: Is England’s Captain Truly a ‘Great Leader’?

Trophy breakthrough at Bayern Munich hasn’t silenced critics of Kane’s leadership

For most footballers, winning a major domestic title after years of near-misses would be enough to silence critics. But for Harry Kane, finally getting his hands on silverware with Bayern Munich in the 2024-25 season has done little to settle the long-standing debate over his credentials—not as a striker, but as a leader.

The England captain, who holds the record as the Three Lions’ all-time leading goalscorer with 73 goals and counting, is no stranger to pressure or expectation. From the white-hot spotlight of Premier League title races with Tottenham to heartbreak in a Champions League final and two Euros campaigns, Kane has always been front and centre. Yet, for some, that hasn’t been enough to prove his mettle as a great leader.

Bayern Munich glory comes at long last

Kane’s move to Bayern Munich was always going to be about more than just goals—it was about legacy. After years of carrying Spurs on his back and coming up short in the trophy department, the 2024-25 Bundesliga crown was a much-needed breakthrough. It brought an end to a personal drought that had long been weaponised by detractors who argued that great players win great prizes.

Now, with a German league title to his name and a vital role in keeping Bayern competitive across all fronts, Kane’s trophy curse appears to have lifted. But the same can’t be said for the conversation around his leadership.

Simon Jordan reignites the conversation

Harry Kane England

Former Crystal Palace chairman and outspoken pundit Simon Jordan didn’t hold back when asked about Kane’s standing as a leader. Speaking to talkSPORT, Jordan said:

“I don’t think he’s a leader. I think he’s a great player. I don’t think he’s a great leader.”

Jordan’s criticism hinges on a familiar argument: that Kane disappears in big moments. He cited the 2019 Champions League final against Liverpool as a prime example, claiming the striker “didn’t turn up” on the night Tottenham fell flat. The suggestion is that Kane leads by example, yes—but only to a point.

“That’s a form of leadership,” Jordan conceded. “But they’ve never won anything under him, and in big competitions, there are games where he hasn’t delivered.”

A wider issue at Spurs?

Jordan’s comments also touched on the wider context of Kane’s time at Tottenham. According to him, former Spurs boss Antonio Conte made it clear that leadership was lacking across the dressing room. Kane may have worn the armband, but Jordan implied he wasn’t the sort of figure to grab a game—or his teammates—by the scruff of the neck when it mattered most.

“I think Antonio Conte made it very clear to Daniel Levy as part of his little departing salvo that he thought there was not a single leader in that dressing room,” Jordan added.

It’s a harsh assessment, especially when directed at a player who has delivered so consistently at club and international level. But it’s not a lone opinion either. The conversation around Kane’s leadership—or perceived lack thereof—has followed him for much of his career, especially when contrasted with his individual brilliance.

The case for Kane as a leader

Harry Kane Bayern Munich 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

To counter the critics, there’s no shortage of arguments in Kane’s favour. For one, his consistency is second to none. Season after season, for both club and country, he delivers goals, assists, and performances that define matches. His dedication is beyond question, and his professionalism has made him a role model for young players across the game.

Many within the England camp have spoken glowingly about his influence. He’s known to be a calm, steadying presence—someone who leads not with fire and fury, but with clarity, work ethic, and a relentless desire to improve.

That kind of leadership may not scream from the rooftops, but it’s no less valuable, especially in the high-stakes environment of international football.

England duties continue as World Cup looms

Kane remains a central figure for England heading toward the 2026 World Cup under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel. Despite past disappointments in major tournaments, he’s still the focal point of the national team and its most dangerous weapon in the final third.

He’s also continued to publicly back England’s other teams, recently congratulating the Lionesses for their historic run to another Euro final. It’s another example of the captain doing the right thing—quietly, but firmly.

Whether or not Kane ever fits the mold of what some define as a “great leader” may ultimately be irrelevant. What matters is whether his leadership—however it manifests—gets results. And with a Bundesliga medal now in his cabinet, he’s beginning to show that maybe, just maybe, the tide is turning.

Legacy still in progress

At 31, Kane’s story is far from over. There are more goals to score, more records to break, and, crucially, more trophies to chase. The World Cup looms large, and if he were to lift silverware with England in 2026, the narrative around his leadership might shift once and for all.

Until then, though, the debate will continue. Is Harry Kane a great leader? Or just a great player?

In truth, he might be both. Just not in the way some people expect.