Harry Kane's European Quest: Opportunities and Possibilities in UCL after Bundesliga Dream Crash

Harry Kane is hoping to end his trophy drought through European glory, a prospect that is becoming increasingly likely as his first season in Germany progresses. This brutal possibility became more real last Saturday, as Bayern Munich were completely dominated by a far superior and more entertaining Bayer Leverkusen side, who beat the Bavarians 3-0.

Although there are still 13 games to be played in the Bundesliga — the gap is still only five points — there is little sign that Thomas Tuchel's side can turn around their league form. The DFB-Pokal is also out of grasp, as Bayern's early exit to third-tier Saarbrücken is a humiliation.
Therefore, the Champions League is Bayern's best chance of winning a trophy this season. For most teams — even successful ones like Bayern — European glory is usually not worth pursuing alone. There are too many variables, too much unpredictability. Trying to establish control in a match as chaotic as it is does not always yield good results.

But for Harry Kane and Bayern, their performance in Europe stands out more than ever. This is Kane's only realistic chance to end his first season in Germany with a medal around his neck, a prize he craves so much.

While Kane might turn things around, history suggests he doesn't really end droughts. Despite his immeasurable talent, the England captain has yet to lift a trophy.

His move to Bayern was supposed to fix this glaring issue. Having lifted the Bundesliga trophy 11 times in succession and being consistent Champions League contenders, they were thought to provide the best chance for him to finally fill his barren trophy cabinet. Kane himself is not to blame for Bayern's current situation in the title race; in fact, his goals have kept them in contention.

Despite being laden with talent, however, Bayern Munich still can't find a way to win. Even with all the individual accolades, Harry Kane is not the one to change this.

The game isn't over — at least not right now. Although Kane and his tangible success have been mocked, Leverkusen have their own problems. They've never won the Bundesliga, and their inability to finish top-tier seasons has earned them the nickname "Neverkusen". Despite perhaps being too harsh, the nickname might even apply.

Regardless, this Bayern team might need to look elsewhere. While a "UCL or bust" strategy isn't always the wisest, fruits of success have been borne in the past: Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League in 2005, yet they won the Champions League against a formidable AC Milan. But that is an exception — not a reliable method. Success at home and in Europe often go hand in hand, so Bayern will need to play better across the board, and at the crucial times in the game.