Harry Kane's Unforgettable Bayern Munich Debut: Mario Gomez and Philipp Lahm Weigh in on No 9 Pressure

After 4369 days since his debut without a trophy, Harry Kane's departure from Tottenham was anticipated to break the streak when he joined Bayern Munich. However, to the dismay of the €100m signing, schadenfreude ensued. RB Leipzig's Dani Olmo delivered a hat-trick, shocking the hopeful Bayern supporters within the Allianz Arena and subsequently winning the Supercup. Kane's impact was limited as he came on with his team already two goals down, and three goals down before even touching the ball.

Bayern's attempt to make Kane feel at home did not align with his expectations. Despite his efforts, he received minimal gratification as he chased after the ball. Thomas Tuchel went as far as apologizing to Kane for his teammates' inability to pass the ball accurately to him. This defeat may have been beneficial in challenging the significance of winning trophies in a team that has become accustomed to success without his presence. Based on this performance, it is not guaranteed that victory is assured. Ultimately, Kane must step up and be the game-changer.

Mathys Tel, an 18-year-old filling in for Kane up front, had two opportunities within the first 25 minutes. His presence served as a stark reminder of the void that needed to be filled and exemplified why Bayern prioritized his signing.

As Tel made his way through on goal for the third time just before the 60-minute mark, only to have his shot saved, the chants for Kane, which had already begun in the first half, grew even louder. The crowd, who had eagerly awaited the availability of his shirt since the morning, eagerly longed for his arrival.

As Kane received the call to conclude his warm-up and rush to the bench for instructions, the electrifying atmosphere in the stadium was palpable. The magnitude of being the most expensive signing in the illustrious history of one of the world's largest clubs weighed heavily on his mind.

Undoubtedly, Kane is well-versed in bearing the burden of a club's expectations. However, at Spurs, he was cherished as a homegrown talent long before those lofty expectations were thrust upon him. Now, at the age of 30, there are countless factors compelling him to succeed in this pivotal moment, with a staggering sum of one hundred million reasons at stake.

Mario Gomez, Bayern Munich's revered No 9, was questioned about the unmatched pressure that comes with his role. Having tallied an impressive 113 goals in this position, Gomez asserts that handling this pressure is far more complex psychologically than outsiders might assume. "It's easy for people who aren't strikers, observing from the sidelines, to claim, 'Sure, I could score goals in this team too.' Perhaps they might in certain matches," Gomez explained.

"We've played matches that felt more like practice sessions due to the fact that many opposing teams arrive with little motivation even before the game starts, particularly at the Allianz Arena. Consequently, in these matches, it would seem that any striker could have easily scored.

"However, there also exist different types of games. There are challenges where immense pressure surrounds us, as this club is always expected to achieve great success."

There is always an anticipation for Bayern Munich's striker to score. One goal is not sufficient; there is an expectation for multiple goals or even a hat-trick. Failing to score in a crucial game leads to the perception of being a good player but not a top player. This type of pressure is unique.

However, if you are a smaller club aiming to reach the highest level, the pressure is different. As evidenced in recent years, if such a club is eliminated from the Champions League in the quarter-finals, it feels as though someone has dismantled the entire club.

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Robert Lewandowski has consistently handled pressure over the years, achieving the impressive feat of scoring more than 40 goals in seven consecutive seasons. Gomez acknowledges the significance of finding a striker who can perform like Lewandowski, emphasizing the impact it can make. Gomez and Lewandowski both had the privilege of playing alongside exceptional wingers like Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery at Bayern, and it is believed that there is similar talent available to support Kane today. Gomez highlights the importance of having reliable strikers who can capitalize on the opportunities created by skilled dribblers.

"This is what happened when Arjen and Franck were on my side. They were doing some unbelievable things, but it would all be forgotten if no one finished them off. However, if someone manages to score after such an amazing dribble, it will always be remembered and talked about.

According to Philipp Lahm, the former captain of Bayern Munich and an eight-time Bundesliga winner, he agrees that Kane has the ability not only to put away the chances that Tel struggled with, but also to reshape the team's attack. He can be that essential focal point for the rest of the team."

When asked how Kane can assist, he responded: "Following Lewandowski's departure, Bayern had lost their sense of direction. Kane can undoubtedly restore that in the attacking third, offering a clear understanding of how to play and providing that much-needed guidance."

However, there was little evidence of this on Saturday evening. While Leipzig displayed smooth movements and their new signings quickly formed chemistry, Bayern seemed slow and their patterns of play were slightly disrupted, demonstrating a lack of clear thinking.

The three goals conceded indicate issues in the defensive line, as mentioned by Lahm, who believes that merely signing a No 9 won't fix the problem. It is not just one player but also others who lack a clear plan. It is crucial for them to implement their strategy now.

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For Kane, the enormity of it all is overwhelming. In the days to come, one can envision him finally finding time to pause and contemplate his whirlwind weekend, which feels almost like a surreal dream. The rollercoaster ride took him from his beloved childhood club to the prestigious stage of Germany's Supercup. And in that moment of reflection, the weight of reality will surely descend upon him.

Upon reflection, he will remember the overwhelming adoration he received upon his arrival, the tangible enthusiasm from his newfound supporters, and the sheer magnitude of it all. Additionally, he will acknowledge the fact that this Bayern team is a work in progress, far from being a fully accomplished unit as some might assume.

Gomez expresses his belief that he will significantly influence this team, and extends his well wishes as he understands the importance of this new phase for him. Recognizing his status as one of the finest players of the present moment, Gomez speculates that the desire to attain victory may have driven him to join Bayern, considering his lack of major accomplishments thus far.

For now, however, the wait goes on.