Thomas Tuchel says he has “run out of superlatives” to describe Harry Kane after the England captain won the Ballon d’Or.
Bayern Munich striker Kane pipped Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe to football’s most prestigious individual prize at the London Palladium, rewarded for his staggering season in which he scored 73 goals for club and country.
The 33-year-old became the first Englishman to lift the trophy since Michael Owen in 2001.
Under Tuchel, he led his country to the last four of the World Cup, where they suffered a devastating loss to Argentina. England nevertheless achieved their best World Cup finish since 1966, coming home with bronze after victory over France in the third-place play-off.
Following Kane’s triumph, Tuchel said: “Congratulations Harry on a deserved Ballon D’Or!
“I ran out of superlatives to describe your performances a long time ago, but I’m delighted to see that you have now been formally recognised by the football world.
“To become the first Englishman to win this huge honour in 25 years makes it extra special and we are lucky to have you as our leader.
“I know you will enjoy this moment with your loved ones and then get back to doing what you do best – scoring goals and winning football matches.”
The FA also honoured Kane’s Ballon d’Or win by illuminating the Wembley arch in gold on Monday night.
Kane paid tribute to his England team-mates, manager and staff during an emotional acceptance speech.
“To all my England teammates, we had a special year,” he said. “It wasn't the perfect year, but we had a lot of good moments. We built a great bond together, a lot of togetherness. The way we trained, the way we played, the togetherness in the hotel in the World Cup.
“It’s truly an honour to captain you, lead you. It makes me extremely proud so this one is for all of us, for sure.
“To Thomas Tuchel and the staff at England again. The leadership, the way you drive us, the way you push standards is something to be admired and it's an honour to represent you and represent the England badge the way you do.
“I know Debbie [Hewitt, FA Chair] is here tonight as well, so Debbie, thank you very much for everything you do and everyone at the FA, it's truly an honour to be your captain.”