'I did not quite understand' - Germany legend Lothar Matthaus hits back at Harry Kane's Bayern Munich transfer claim

Bayern lifted the DFL Supercup after a 2-1 win over Stuttgart, securing the first trophy of the season under head coach Vincent Kompany. Harry Kane was on the scoresheet with a stunner, but the England captain’s post-match comments raised eyebrows. Kane described Bayern’s squad as “one of the smallest” he has ever played in, with only 25 professionals available and further departures thinning the group. His remarks came just a day after Kingsley Coman completed a move to Al-Nassr.

Germany legend Lothar Matthäus openly questioned Kane’s remarks in his latest column for Sky Sport, suggesting the striker had overlooked Bayern’s reinforcements and returning players: “I didn’t quite understand Harry Kane’s comments that this year’s Bayern squad is one of the smallest he’s ever played in. Diaz and Tah are absolute reinforcements, and they’ve also added a really good player in central midfield in Tom Bischof. Furthermore, Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, and Hiroki Ito will return from their injuries at the latest when the title is at stake.”

The contrast highlights a broader debate at Bayern, should Kompany’s side rely on their experienced core and integrate emerging prospects, or push for more signings before the deadline? The club has brought in Luis Diaz, Jonathan Tah, and Tom Bischof, yet 11 players have departed permanently, leaving just 22 fit senior options. Sporting director Christoph Freund has admitted the squad “isn’t the greatest in terms of quantity,” underlining Kane’s concerns. Matthaus, though, believes faith in returning stars and youth development will balance the numbers.

The Bundesliga champions face a decisive two weeks before the transfer window shuts in September. While links to Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku persist, a deal appears unlikely given his price tag. Kane hopes for reinforcements, while Kompany may choose to double down on his younger players, especially after their promising pre-season showings. Bayern kick off their league campaign against RB Leipzig on August 22, followed by a DFB Pokal clash against Wehen Wiesbaden, fixtures that will test whether the squad depth debate proves costly or overstated.