Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has acknowledged the impact of being released by Arsenal during his childhood, a memory that remains with him as he prepares to face them in the Champions League.
The Bavarian giants are set to host Arsenal in the second leg of their quarter-final tie, having drawn 2-2 at the Emirates Stadium in the previous encounter.
Having spent nearly two decades at rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Kane is no stranger to facing Arsenal. His goal from the penalty spot in the first leg brought his tally against the Gunners to 15 in 20 matches, a record surpassed only against Leicester City (20) and Everton (16).
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Reflecting on his time at Arsenal’s youth ranks before joining Spurs, Kane discussed how he has dealt with rejection throughout his life.
“We played them at least twice a year for the last 10 years [with Tottenham], and it was always a big occasion, big moment,” Kane stated. “Maybe it was in the back of my mind, being released from a young age, and there is always a point to prove.
“I am the type of player who, throughout my career, has had points to prove along the way. I don’t think that ever leaves you. It will always be in my DNA, until I retire. There will always be a reason to prove someone wrong or to prove myself I can do something.
“I don’t specifically think back to that and think ‘I was released when I was nine years old, I really have to make a difference tomorrow’. Now I am at Bayern Munich, it is about being a top team in the Champions League. Of course, I have history with them [Arsenal], but all I can do is try to help Bayern Munich.”