Spanish newspaper Marca has likened Bayern Munich to a "modern Spartan army" due to their formidable attacking power ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid. Under coach Vincent Kompany, Bayern recently surpassed the 300-goal mark in just 99 matches, establishing themselves as an almost unstoppable offensive force.

Leading this prolific attack is Harry Kane, who has netted 89 goals, accounting for nearly 30% of Bayern's total goals over the two most recent seasons. The team's recent 3-2 comeback victory against Freiburg in the Bundesliga helped them reach 300 goals under Kompany. In the Bundesliga alone this season, Bayern has already scored 100 goals, just one goal shy of their 1971-1972 season record, with 6 rounds remaining.

Spanish newspaper Marca created an AI image likening Bayern to a Spartan army.

Despite an ankle injury that kept the English center-forward out of the Freiburg match, there is strong confidence within the team that the 32-year-old striker will recover for the two legs against Real. Joshua Kimmich emphasized this confidence after a recent Bundesliga win, stating, "He can play even if he has to be in a wheelchair. I think he will play. If needed, he will drag himself onto the pitch. We hope Kane will be in the best physical condition for the upcoming match."

Kane is reportedly prioritizing full recovery for his ambitions in the Champions League and the 2026 World Cup with England. This focus explains his decision not to risk playing in the Bundesliga, even while pursuing Robert Lewandowski's record of 41 goals in a single season. Currently, Kane is in top form, having scored 48 goals in 40 matches this season, including 31 in the Bundesliga. He forms a potent attacking trio with Michael Olise and Luis Diaz, who together have contributed 86 goals and 51 assists, making them one of Europe's most high-performing offensive lines.

Kane celebrates during Bayern's 3-0 win over Werder Bremen in the 22nd round of the Bundesliga at Weserstadion, Bremen, Germany on 14/2. Photo: FC Bayern

Real Madrid had considered signing Kane after Karim Benzema's departure in 2023. However, a high transfer fee and long-term plans for Kylian Mbappe ultimately prevented the move. If Kane features at the Bernabeu today, he will have the opportunity to break his personal jinx of never scoring at the stadium, while also fueling Bayern's quest for the Champions League title.

Hong Duy (according to Marca)