Harry Kane ready to 'step up and be louder' to help fill Bayern Munich leadership void as new dressing room hierarchy takes shape after Thomas Muller exit

Muller’s departure at the end of the 2024–25 season marked the end of an era for Bayern as the veteran forward opted to join Vancouver Whitecaps after his contract expired. A talismanic presence at the club, his leadership as vice-captain and intimate connection with the fans made him irreplaceable. While Bayern remain a powerhouse, they squad now faces the challenge of filling the void left by a player whose presence extended far beyond goals and assists.

With Muller gone, though, a new hierarchy is taking shape within the dressing room, Bild reports. In addition to captain Manuel Neuer, and his vice-captain Joshua Kimmich, 32-year-old Kane and summer signing Jonathan Tah have taken on more responsibility within the team, as have established stars Leon Goretzka and Serge Gnabry. 

With Muller gone, the responsibility to lead has shifted across the squad, Kane explained: "It's a mix of other players. Thomas was always a loud leader, but that doesn't mean we don't still have others like Josh, Manu, myself, or even Serge and a few others. When a player like him leaves, a leader like him, it puts pressure on other players to step up and be a little louder in certain situations than in the past.

"That's why I think it's a bit more spread out across the team now. But as you can see, we have a strong environment right now. The current team has a very good sense of togetherness. And that's how we started the season!"

Bayern sporting director Freund admits that no one can replace Muller but claims the team has divided their work and responsibilities making the leadership less stressful and more effective.

"Thomas Müller is a legend! I don't think replacing him one-to-one is possible. He was there for so long and had such a personality that you can't replace. But the team lives very, very well within itself, and things are simply divided up. It's great in the dressing room.

"There are a few young players, Alex Pavlovic, Tom Bischof. Besides Manu, Jo Kimmich, who have been here longer. Michael Olise feels extremely comfortable in the group. It's just a good mix at the moment."

Muller’s influence stretched far beyond his 13 Bundesliga titles, two Champions League trophies, and countless other accolades. A native Bavarian, he personified the club's ethos - resilient, authentic, and deeply connected to his home culture. His loyalty, humour, and leadership made him part of a much larger community, from the youth ranks to the senior squad, fans, and the city itself. 

With Muller gone, Kane has stepped up, scoring 13 goals in seven Bundesliga games - including two hat-tricks - and becoming the fastest player to reach 50 league goals. His clinical form has powered Bayern to a record 18 goals and 12 points from four matches, while the new leadership core, including Kimmich, Neuer and key young players, ensures team unity and the winning mentality Muller once embodied.