Harry Kane, Tottenham’s all-time top goalscorer, has praised ex-chairman Daniel Levy for his transformative impact on the club over nearly 25 years at the helm.
Levy, who stepped down following a recent internal review of club operations, leaves behind a legacy that includes Tottenham’s world-class stadium, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a period of consistent European competition. His departure has sparked speculation around a potential change in ownership – rumors that have been denied by the club’s majority shareholder.
Speaking ahead of England’s 5-0 hammering of Serbia in World Cup qualifying action on Tuesday night, Kane admitted he didn’t see the move coming.
“Obviously it was a bit of a surprise, if I’m honest,” said Kane. “I didn’t expect it, didn’t see that coming. Daniel has been a fantastic chairman for Tottenham in the 20-or-so years he’s been there. Considering where the club was and where it is now, I think there’s been a big change – not just on the pitch, but off the pitch as well.”
Kane, who joined Bayern Munich in 2023, came through the youth system at Spurs and saw firsthand the highs and lows of Levy’s leadership. While the club reached new heights in infrastructure and global recognition, Kane was also part of a title-challenging squad that wasn’t strengthened in key moments – most notably in 2018. He also encountered Levy’s tough negotiation tactics during a failed move to Manchester City in 2021, before finally leaving for Germany two years later.
Despite those challenges, Kane was generous in his praise.
“We obviously built a relationship over the time we had together. I’m sure at some stage we’ll catch up,” he added. “All I can say is I wish Daniel all the best in whatever’s next for him. For Tottenham, it’s a new chapter they’re trying to create now.”
Tottenham chief executive Vinai Venkatesham also acknowledged Levy’s contributions, describing them as “extraordinary,” but emphasized that the club remains stable.
“The club is well organised for succession. We have a very strong executive team in place, and while it might feel like a slightly strange thing to say to the external world, although it’s big news, inside the club, it really is business as usual,” Venkatesham said on Monday.
Under Levy’s leadership, Spurs became one of the most recognized football clubs globally, with 18 appearances in European competitions over the past 20 seasons and, most recently, a Europa League triumph in 2024 – their first major trophy since 2008.
