Dietmar Hamann: 'Big ask' for Harry Kane to emulate Messi and Ronaldo at 2030 World Cup

Former Bayern Munich midfielder Dietmar Hamann has cast doubt on whether England captain Harry Kane will be able to feature in the 2030 World Cup. By the time the tournament arrives, the striker will be 36 years old, and Hamann suggests that emulating the longevity of legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is a significant challenge.

He’s turned 33 now so he'll be 36 going on 37 in four years' time. It's a big ask. I wouldn't put him in the same bracket as those two. Dietmar Hamann

Hamann pointed to Kane's intense career progression, noting that he began playing at a high level early on and has maintained a high volume of matches without significant injury breaks. Former England winger Chris Waddle also shared similar sentiments, noting that while Kane relies on his football intelligence rather than raw pace, the physical demands of international football at that age could prove too much.

Despite the skepticism, Kane remains a prolific force, currently expected to sign a new deal at the Allianz Arena. The consensus is that he will continue as the leader of the England squad through the 2028 European Championship, but his involvement beyond that remains a topic of speculation as he manages his late-career workload.