Ballon d’Or winner responds to Simeone’s praise

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, a Ballon d’Or winner, has responded to comments made about him by Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone ahead of their UEFA Champions League league-phase match in the fourth round.

TodayPress TV reports, citing AS, that the Argentine coach described the English forward as a role model for other players. Kane said he greatly appreciated Simeone’s praise.

“He is one of the best coaches of the modern era. It is a great honour for me to receive such praise from him.

“The reaction after I won the Ballon d’Or was incredible. My journey towards this award may have been different from that of other winners. I faced quite a few difficult moments along the way.

“However, through determination and hard work, I have managed to achieve what I have today. Simeone will do everything he can to stop me and my team. A difficult match awaits us. Nevertheless, I truly appreciate his kind words.”

The Atlético Madrid-Bayern Munich match is scheduled to kick off at 23:00 Baku time on November 3.

Namiq HUN