After his furious breakthrough in late autumn, Lennart Karl is experiencing a phase at FC Bayern for the first time in which not everything is running smoothly. Fewer scoring points, less playing time, plus individual scenes that cause discussion. However, the 17-year-old himself remains unimpressed – and finds clear words
„I’ll just keep going full throttle. You can’t always perform perfectly. I have to go full throttle in training and in games – then the performance will come back,“ said Karl on the SPORT1 mic after the 5:1 win against TSG Hoffenheim
Karl had recently attracted attention against Hoffenheim, particularly for a scene in the second half. After several oversteps, he missed the ball and the action fizzled out. This was followed by ridicule on social media. For some observers, this was a symbol of a slight dip in form, for others it was simply proof that Karl remains courageous
Coach Vincent Kompany clearly backed his protégé after the game. He did not see any signs of arrogance or disrespect, explained the Bayern coach. The action was simply unfortunate. At the same time, Kompany made it clear that public perception works both ways: anyone who is celebrated must also be able to deal with criticism
The fact is that Karl’s exceptional run in the first half of the season has come to an end for the time being. In 2026, he has yet to appear on the pitch for more than 90 minutes, and goals and assists have become rarer. However, this is precisely the phase that those responsible at FC Bayern had taken into account. Expectations of the teenager should be deliberately controlled
Will Nagelsmann nominate Karl for the senior national team?
Sporting director Max Eberl also defended the attacking player. „As Vinnie always says: Don’t believe the drama, don’t believe the hype! Lennart has played an outstanding first half of the season and now it’s just that the opponents know him and his strengths,“ said Eberl after the Hoffenheim game. For Karl, it’s now about taking the next step physically and in his abilities – without pressure, but with a willingness to learn
This is exactly the approach Kompany is taking: no special treatment, no public expectations, but instead a constant exchange and trust. Karl himself confirmed that there are no extra conversations, but rather an ongoing dialog – just like with any other player
Despite all the calmness, one thing is clear: the coming weeks will point the way for the youngster. In a few weeks, national coach Julian Nagelsmann will announce his squad for the international matches in March. Whoever is included there can justifiably hope to be nominated for the World Cup.