According to Bild, on Monday noon, a private jet flew from Oberpfaffenhofen Airport near Munich to London, carrying a select Bayern Munich delegation. Their goal was singular: to bring Kane's Ballon d'Or back to Munich.
For this purpose, Bayern Munich dispatched a large contingent to London: CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen (59), President Herbert Hainer (72), as well as nominees Kane, Olise (24), Luis Díaz (29), Upamecano (27), and Lennart Karl (18, nominated for the Young Player award).
Female players and other staff members also accompanied them, including media director Stefan Mennerich.
One high-ranking official was notably absent: Sporting Director Max Eberl (53). Bayern Munich officially stated: "Sporting Director Max Eberl is bedridden with a cold and therefore unable to travel to London for tonight's Ballon d'Or ceremony." Kompany also remained in Germany, despite being one of the five candidates for Coach of the Year. Kompany remained hospitalized in Munich after collapsing, but his condition is stable.
The greatest hope of this large Bayern Munich delegation was that the main award would return to Munich, with Kane lifting the Ballon d'Or as the best player. The English striker himself was also eagerly anticipating the night, having recently said: "Of course, Monday night could be a very special night. I try not to think too much about it, but it is certainly a big deal. I'm looking forward to it, and I hope it will be very special for me. From my perspective, I would, of course, love to know the result in advance so I don't have to wait all night. But that's their decision, and I can't influence it. We just need to enjoy it all and try not to put too much pressure on ourselves."
Max Eberl can only cheer Kane on from home now. When asked by Bild on Sunday, he said: "He has given everything for this. For me, there is no doubt. But I don't have a vote. I will watch and cheer him on."