While Vincent Kompany’s team lost 4-1 to Barcelona in the Champions League on Wednesday, Harry Kane survived another difficult night in the Bayern Munich jersey. The England captain scored his team’s only goal, but his recent performances have come under intense criticism from the German media.

Kane’s personal best since £100m transfer Tottenham It has been extraordinary. His 44 goals in 45 games last season made him Europe’s top scorer, and he has already scored 14 goals in 11 games this season.

But the German broadcast Picture recently accused him of not performing in the biggest games. After Bayern’s 1-1 draw with Bayer Leverkusen, the newspaper asked: “What good is three goals against Kiel if they can’t even get a shot on target in a big game?”

Similar criticism was leveled at England’s record goalscorer following Wednesday’s defeat at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, Barça’s temporary home. “No (Joshua) Kimmich, no Kane, no (Joao) Palhinha to be seen!” the newspaper announced.

Finishing third in the Bundesliga last season, Kane is yet to win a trophy with Bayern Munich, following a shock DFB-Pokal second-round exit and a heartbreaking Champions League semi-final exit. England’s record goalscorer now has just three options as he approaches the final stretch of his career.

The first is to stay at Bayern and play the rest of his football there and hope to gain the support of the country’s media. The dominant Bavarians will win a trophy in the next few years to end Kane’s career drought. But that route depends on how long you’re willing to wait while your performances are criticized.

Another option is to return. Premier LeagueKane realistically only has two options. The first of these is a transition Manchester UnitedIt’s a transfer Spurs are widely reported to be open to making, ruling out selling him to a top-flight domestic rival.

Manchester City may also be interested in transferring Kane, but this would only be possible if Erling Haaland is sold. The Norwegian footballer, who took his season goal tally to 13 against Sparta Prague on Wednesday, has been linked with a major transfer to Real Madrid.

Chelsea was once a reliable suitor, but recently they have seen more value in signing young players. Kane may also decide he doesn’t want to join one of Spurs’ biggest rivals.

Bayern’s difficulties and criticisms leave Kane faced with an important decision he must make before the end of the season. Kompany’s team are currently top of the Bundesliga and could finally claim the first striker trophy in their history.

But Kane may feel more appreciated in his hometown, where his options are increasingly distant.