Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane side by side in Bayern Munich colours
It’s the debate that refuses to go away — Harry Kane or Robert Lewandowski? Two of the most lethal forwards to ever wear Bayern Munich’s famous red shirt, each rewriting goal-scoring history in his own era.
But when it comes to choosing one, Bayern Munich legend Mario Basler has made his pick — and he’s going with the Polish great.
Basler told GOAL, in association with Leo Vegas DE, that while he admires both strikers, Lewandowski’s longevity and legacy at Bayern give him the edge.
“Oh, that’s a very difficult question,” Basler admitted. “Robert Lewandowski was an exceptional striker at FC Bayern. If I really had to choose, I would go with Robert Lewandowski.”
Lewandowski scored a jaw-dropping 344 goals in 375 games for Bayern between 2014 and 2022, consistently hitting 40+ goals in seven straight seasons. He left for Barcelona in 2022, leaving behind an enormous void — one that Harry Kane has impressively filled.
Since arriving from Tottenham, Kane has been nothing short of sensational. The England captain has already scored 107 goals in 111 games, maintaining a strike rate almost identical to Lewandowski’s.
Basler believes Lewandowski’s years of dominance in the Bundesliga give him an advantage in the comparison.
“Yes, he played for Bayern for many years and scored his goals; he was an exceptional striker,” Basler said. “You don’t want to hurt either of them, but if I had to choose, I would go with Robert Lewandowski.”
Interestingly, Basler has also pointed out the stylistic contrasts between the two strikers:
“Harry Kane and Robert Lewandowski are similar in some ways. They are rarely injured and they always score goals, but I believe Kane is more of a team player — Lewandowski is sometimes a very selfish striker.
Kane tracks back, helps in midfield, and contributes more to Bayern’s build-up play. He’s more involved defensively and makes the team stronger overall.”
While Basler’s heart might side with Lewandowski, his comments also highlight Kane’s growing influence — not just as a finisher, but as a complete footballer.
As the Englishman continues to chase Lewandowski’s legacy, one thing is certain: Bayern fans have been spoiled with two of the most clinical forwards in modern football history.
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