Lennart Karl is causing a stir at FC Bayern – and there has long been discussion as to whether the 17-year-old could even be a candidate for the 2026 World Cup. While experts warn that the super talent should not be used up too early, one of the club’s legends is now speaking out with clear words: Franck Ribéry believes a World Cup nomination is absolutely realistic
Lennart Karl is regarded as one of the greatest talents to have emerged from the Bayern campus in recent years. His meteoric rise under Vincent Kompany has long since aroused covetousness – including from the DFB. Karl’s name is mentioned time and again when it comes to potential surprise nominations for the upcoming World Cup.
Ex-Bayern star Franck Ribéry , who spoke to SPORT1 as part of the Icon League, has little understanding for the reticence of many experts.
„Why should he wait? Why should he need time?“ asks the Frenchman provocatively, adding: „There is no time in soccer.“
For Ribéry, one thing is certain: if Karl shows the necessary quality and potential, there’s nothing to stop him taking part in the World Cup – regardless of his age.
„If he’s ready, he doesn’t need time“
Ribéry knows the mechanics of top-level soccer like no other. He himself became a key player for FC Bayern early on – and sees parallels with Karl. That’s why he emphasizes: „If he’s ready, then he doesn’t need time.“
And Ribéry goes even further: „Why not? I hope he continues like this.“
With this clear message, the club icon is taking a stand against those who warn that Karl needs to be built up carefully. For Ribéry, performance, mentality and potential are what count – qualities that the 17-year-old has already demonstrated impressively in Munich.
Kompany’s Bayern convinced – also in Ribéry’s eyes
In addition to the Karl debate, Ribéry also commented on the current form of his former club. The Frenchman believes FC Bayern are capable of great things this season, both nationally and internationally. Nevertheless, he reminded everyone that the Champions League demands a different level: „The Champions League is something different to the Bundesliga or DFB Cup.“
Coach Vincent Kompany receives special praise from him: „He’s doing very well.“
For Ribéry, the interplay between courageous youth development and tactical stability seems to be an important building block of Bayern’s success.