Ronney Worried about Kane's Fitness for England at 2026 World Cup after a Battle with Bayern Munich

Wayne Rooney wants Harry Kane to be fit and firing for the 2026 World Cup even if he doubts the England captain will try to boost his chances by protecting himself too much in the next few months.

Kane, who overtook Rooney as England's all-time leading scorer three years ago, is enjoying the most prolific season of his goal-laden career. He scored 48 goals in 40 appearances for Bayern Munich.

Rooney admitted how Kane's performance at this summer's 2026 World Cup could be the key to England's hopes. The problem is, he believes the 32-year-old will also be all out to help Bayern Munich achieve glory at home and abroad.

The Bavarian giants are nine points clear at the top of the Bundesliga and through to the Champions League quarter-finals. So Rooney feels Kane will only think about the 2026 World Cup after the season is over.

"I think the very important aspect for England is to have Harry Kane fit. If he is fit then he will be the main reason why we (England) can win the tournament (2026 World Cup)."

"If you go into any game and you're not fully committed to that game because you're thinking about something else, then you're potentially injured."

"Every player will tell you that you play for your club. When you play for your club, that's all that matters until the season is over. Then you go with England. The Three Lions then take over."

"I don't think he's going to slow down. Hopefully Bayern Munich win the league early enough and (Mananjer) Vincent Kompany gives him a bit of a hand!" Rooney told the Press Association.

Kane was among the 11 main players who missed the 1-1 draw against Uruguay on Saturday, March 28, 2026 WIB, but the former Tottenham striker will return for the friendly against Japan on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, early morning WIB.

His brilliant form this season has seen him emerge as a candidate to win the Ballon d'Or and become the first English player to win the award since Michael Owen a quarter of a century ago.

Despite being considered one of the best centre forwards in the world, Kane has never finished higher than 10th in the Ballon d'Or voting, which Rooney says baffles him.

"He's been consistent in what he's done throughout his career. He scores goals, he creates goals at club and international level."

"Doing it year after year, and he's never been mentioned for a big award, which I think is quite strange," said the former Manchester United and England captain.