FC Bayern played their last competitive match of the 2025 calendar year just under ten days ago. With a commanding 4-0 win at Heidenheim, the Munich side took their leave for the Christmas break – and with it a few days off away from daily training at Säbener Straße. For the players, this means rest, relaxation and time for family or travel. But not everyone switches off completely
Lennart Karl, in particular, does not use the winter break exclusively for regeneration. The 17-year-old, who finally celebrated his breakthrough in the professional game in the first half of the 2025/26 season, is already working on his next developmental step. While many of his team-mates are putting their feet up or soaking up the sun, the Bayern jewel is putting in targeted extra shifts
Karl works specifically on athleticism and explosiveness
A video published on Instagram by athletics coach Björn Schulz provides a clear insight into Karl’s Christmas program. The youngster can be seen doing intensive running sessions with a focus on sprinting, tackling and explosiveness. Not a relaxed session, not token training – but targeted work on precisely those factors that make the difference in modern top-level soccer
The fact that Karl is making the most of this time fits in with the picture of recent months. The attacking player has not only earned himself a permanent place in the squad under Vincent Kompany, but has also made impressive sporting statements. Goals, assists, presence in big games – the name Karl has long been more than just a promise for the future. Nevertheless, the youngster seems to be aware that the most difficult part is yet to come: confirmation
Second half of the season as the next test
The second half of the season is often the biggest challenge for young players in particular. Opponents become more competitive, expectations rise, the ease of the first few months gives way to constant pressure to perform. Karl is not facing this situation with restraint, but with work. The extra shifts during the winter break are a clear signal: the 17-year-old doesn’t just want to keep up, he wants to take the next step
At FC Bayern, this attitude is viewed with favour. Internally, Karl has long been regarded as a prime example of the new campus approach that the club has adopted. Talent alone is not enough – mentality, discipline and a willingness to work harder are crucial, qualities that Karl already embodies
Added to this is the trust of head coach Vincent Kompany, who did not spare Karl in the first half of the season, but deliberately called on him. Starting appearances, responsibility in tight games, clear roles – all of this obliges. Karl knows that his place in the team is not a gift, but has to be earned anew every day. The work on vacation is therefore less a surprise than a logical consequence.
