LONDON — Captain Harry Kane is optimistic that his participation in the 2026 World Cup will not mark the end of his international career with England. The attention surrounding the 31-year-old rising star has increased, particularly after enhancing his record as the nation’s leading scorer to 69 goals in 103 matches following a decisive 5-0 victory over Ireland at Wembley Stadium.
Recently, Kane was unexpectedly left out of the squad for the 3-0 triumph against Greece last Thursday, stirring discussions about his future. A statue and mural celebrating Kane were unveiled on Monday at the location of his former youth club, Ridgeway Rovers, in East London. When asked by the British Press Association whether the upcoming World Cup would be his final opportunity to compete in the tournament, he responded confidently, “I don’t think so.”
Kane acknowledged that there’s a common perception that players begin to decline once they reach their thirties. However, he stated, “I feel like I’m performing at the highest level I’ve ever performed and feel as good as I’ve ever felt. It’s about taking in the moment.” He emphasized his focus on the present, stating he is not inclined to gaze too far into the future. The 2026 World Cup, which will take place across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, excites him, as he anticipates it will be a remarkable experience, particularly in America, where winning will be the ultimate goal.
Having begun his football journey at Ridgeway Rovers at just five years old, Kane expressed his delight with the statue erected in his honor. “It’s pretty special to be honest,” he remarked. “These are things I didn’t think of when I was young. It all began here and it was the building blocks of my career. This serves as a great inspiration for the boys and girls who play.”
Upon being queried about what would be required for him to earn a statue outside Wembley alongside England’s 1966 World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore, Kane replied, “I think we need to win a major tournament.” Reflecting on past near-misses, he noted, “We’ve come close on a couple of occasions, and the next step is for me and the other boys to win.”
Kane also mentioned the upcoming arrival of a new coach in March, Thomas Tuchel, expressing optimism about his vast experience in major competitions. He believes Tuchel will invigorate the team and imprint his tactical identity on their style of play, which bodes well for England’s future endeavors.