Harry Kane continues to earn admirers across the Bundesliga, and apparently, even opposing strikers are taking notes.

SC Freiburg forward Igor Matanović had nothing but praise for the Bayern Munich superstar, explaining why he would vote for Kane to win the Ballon d’Or. For Matanović, it is not just the goals and assists that make Kane special, but everything he brings to the game.

“I would definitely vote for him [for the Ballon d’Or]. Goals, assists, the way he plays - he is a very special player. I learn a lot from him and really enjoy watching him. It warms my heart. He’s not a typical striker, even though, of course, he can do that too. But the way he gets involved in the game, helps the team and also works defensively is impressive. He is an incredible player whom you can learn so, so much from. It would make me happy to see a player like him win the Ballon d’Or. It doesn’t always have to be the ‘magicians and wizards’ on the pitch. The directness he maintains in his game is simply world-class to me,” Matanović told Bild (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).

That is quite the endorsement from a fellow Bundesliga striker. Kane has made a habit of combining elite finishing with intelligent link-up play, relentless work rate, and anability to make everyone around him better.

The “magicians and wizards” comment is very interesting. Kane might not always produce the flashy moments that dominate highlight reels, but his movement, passing, physicality, and ruthless efficiency make him one of the most complete forwards in world football.

If opposing strikers are studying Kane to improve their own games, Bayern Munich fans already know how special their No. 9 is. Now, the question is whether the Ballon d’Or voters will give him the recognition Matanović believes he deserves.