Why isn’t Harry Kane playing for Bayern Munich vs Benfica today at the Club World Cup?

Harry Kane will not start for Bayern Munich in today’s crucial Group C finale against Benfica at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The English superstar is not dealing with any reported injuries, so his absence from the starting lineup appears to be a strategic decision by head coach Vincent Kompany to give him a well-earned rest.

With Bayern already qualified for the Round of 16, there’s little incentive to risk their top striker in a high-intensity game. Still, Kane could be brought on in the second half if needed, depending on how the match unfolds. His replacement will be Thomas Müller.

Harry Kane’s eventful start to the Club World Cup with Bayern

Kane, 31, was a key presence in Bayern Munich’s first two group-stage matches. He started the tournament opener against Auckland City but was substituted after 61 minutes, with the German giants already cruising to a massive 10–0 victory. In their second outing, a tighter 2–1 win over Boca Juniors, Kane played the full 90 minutes.

Despite the rout against the New Zealand side, Kane didn’t find the back of the net. However, he did score a vital goal in the win over Boca, helping his team secure their spot in the next round.