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E-mail Xinhua, April 8, 2025
The praise for Leroy Sane is coming from the very top-Bayern Munich's leading scorer and England captain, Harry Kane.
"You can see his confidence. That's exactly what we need right now; he's effective and hungry for more," Kane said, adding that he's glad to have the 29-year-old winger as a consistent scoring and assist threat.
Leroy Sane (L) of Bayern Munich vies with Kevin Wimmer of Slovan Bratislava during the UEFA Champions League football match between Bayern Munich and Slovan Bratislava in Munich, Germany, Jan. 29, 2025. (Photo by Philippe Ruiz/Xinhua)
Ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal matchup against Italian powerhouse Inter Milan, some good news is a welcome change for injury-plagued Bayern.
With long-term injuries to Dayot Upamecano, Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito complicating preparations, Sane's resurgence offers a bright spot for the Bundesliga champions. With Kingsley Coman sidelined and Serge Gnabry still working back to full fitness, Sane and French winger Michael Olise have stepped up.
Sane has recorded a career-high nine league goals this season, along with seven assists-numbers that underscore his return to form after struggling for consistency in recent years.
"He's extremely focused on becoming a dependable player for both the club and the national team," Bayern captain Joshua Kimmich said. Sane remained quiet after being named MVP in Bayern's recent 3-1 league win over Augsburg, letting his performances speak for him.
After joining Bayern from Manchester City in 2020, Sane struggled with inconsistency, but 2025 is shaping up to be a turning point.
"It's fun to watch him play," Kimmich added. Together with Olise, Sane has become a driving force behind Bayern's recent success and their hopes of progressing to the next Champions League round.
Sane's resurgence is also fueling talk of a contract extension. His current deal expires at the end of the 2024-25 season, but according to reports, the 69-time capped international is open to a salary cut to stay in Munich, where his family is settled.
"He might not always score, but he brings qualities we rely on," said Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl.
Sane's recent performances for the German national team in their UEFA Nations League wins over Italy (5-4 on aggregate) also impressed.
"He didn't score, but he played two solid games and was a reliable factor," Kimmich said.
Both Kane and Kimmich highlighted Sane's improved body language. Once criticized for hesitancy, the winger is now showing a renewed willingness to win back possession, make incisive runs, and take on defenders.
With nine goal contributions so far in 2025 - second only to Kane's 10 - Sane is not only a key piece in Bayern's Champions League push but also looks poised to secure his future with the club.
