The Champions League seems to be a very special stage for Lennart Karl. In FC Bayern’s 2-1 away win at PSV Eindhoven, the 17-year-old was once again one of the most eye-catching players and impressively confirmed why he is regularly making headlines in the top flight
With the success in Eindhoven, FC Bayern completed a strong league phase in the Champions League and qualified for the round of 16 as group runners-up. While well-known rivals such as Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan have to take a detour via the play-offs, Munich have established a comfortable starting position early on. Lennart Karl played a not inconsiderable part in this
The attacking player set up Jamal Musiala’s 1:0 in Eindhoven, once again underlining his exceptional efficiency at the highest level. It was Karl’s fourth direct goal in the current Champions League season. He now has three goals and one assist to his name – all before his 18th birthday. Only one player in this age group has a better record in Europe: Barcelona’s exceptional talent Lamine Yamal, who has ten direct goals to his name
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– Bayern Munich’s Lennart Karl scored his fourth direct goal in the Champions League (3 goals, 1 assist) – before his 18th birthday, only Lamine Yamal scored more direct goals in the Champions League (10). future. @FCBayern pic.twitter.com/W2FZxnVGRK
– OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) January 28, 2026
The fact that Karl regularly delivers in the top flight is no longer a coincidence. While young players at this level often need time to get used to the pace and intensity, the Bayern youngster looks surprisingly mature. His actions are purposeful, his understanding of the game remarkably mature. It is precisely this mix that makes him increasingly valuable to Munich – especially in a competition where nuances are crucial
After some weaker games, Karl has made an impressive comeback
Recently, there had been phases in which Karl appeared somewhat paler and was less able to influence the attacking play. In Eindhoven, however, the attacker was much more active and playful again. In the first half in particular, he was almost unstoppable on his side, repeatedly looking for depth and stimulating Bayern’s attacking play at high speed
His assist for Musiala was emblematic of his performance: technically clean, with a good overview and perfect timing. But Karl almost made the evening even better. In the 61st minute, he went in for a spectacular finish, his shot would have been almost unstoppable, but PSV keeper Kovar reacted strongly and was just able to defuse the ball. He was just centimetres away from another personal highlight
Karl’s development is a real glimmer of hope for FC Bayern. In a team that plays for international titles, a 17-year-old not only holds his own, but also regularly makes his mark. Especially in the Champions League, Karl shows a presence that is rarely seen at this age. The fact that he is back like this after a somewhat quieter phase also speaks volumes for his mental strength
Looking ahead to the round of 16, Karl is likely to continue to play a role, even if the competition in attack is fierce. His numbers, his performances and his naturalness on the international stage certainly provide arguments. Karl loves the Champions League – and the Champions League seems to suit him too. For FC Bayern, this is a development that could hardly be more valuable in the decisive phase of the season.