Kane felt England became unrecognisable during a difficult spell against Argentina, when a cautious approach saw them retreat from their usual intentions. The switch to a back five and a prolonged period without the ball became symbols of a wider problem rather than the sole cause of defeat.
“Sometimes you maybe go against your beliefs and it feels 10 times worse than losing your way when you accept it, take it on the chin and move on,” Kane explained.
That is the challenge facing Thomas Tuchel and his players. Elite opponents will force tactical adjustments, but England must decide where adaptation ends and fear begins. A team can be flexible without losing its personality.
Kane has argued that the review cannot focus solely on one formation or one decision. England must examine their mentality, personalities and game plan when facing the strongest nations.
“We need to kind of discuss amongst ourselves and answer ourselves: How? How can we be better in those moments? How can we be ourselves more in those moments?” he said.
The question is particularly important because England have already shown they can produce commanding performances against major opposition. Their progress will now be judged by whether those standards survive when the pressure rises.
The upcoming meeting with Spain provides an early opportunity to respond. It is not a tournament knockout match, but it carries the same essential test: can England remain brave, composed and recognisable against a leading football nation?
For Kane, the next step is not simply winning. It is proving that England can lose while staying true to their identity - and, eventually, win because of it.