Lennart Karl has big goals. The 18-year-old not only wants to compete for titles with FC Bayern this season, but also play a key role in the German national team’s new era. Under national team coach Jürgen Klopp, a lot has changed at the DFB. In an interview with DAZN, Karl has now shared some interesting insights into working with the former Liverpool coach.
In particular, the coaching change from Julian Nagelsmann to Klopp meant an adjustment for the national team players at first.
“Of course, it’s a bit complicated to work with something like that at first. When you’ve had someone like Julian (Nagelsmann) before, it’s something completely different,” Karl explained.
Both coaches have their own strengths. However, Klopp’s intense style of play is particularly noticeable.
Karl reveals: Klopp is introducing new cell phone rules
“Julian had his strengths, Kloppo has his strengths. With Kloppo, it’s mostly about energy—just running back, being very defensive—you just have to go full throttle,” reported the Bayern youngster.
This attitude also shapes the national team’s daily training routine. “You can tell that in training, too. Everyone just gives it their all, and it’s a lot of fun to work with him.”
In addition to the athletic demands, Klopp has apparently also placed greater emphasis on discipline within the team. “There are just more rules now, like not using cell phones during meals or anything like that—it’s just not part of the deal,” Karl revealed.
The national team coach apparently wants to encourage personal interaction among the players. “The players are supposed to just talk to each other, and on game day, you’re not allowed to have a cell phone in the locker room. Those are the most important rules.”
Karl sees an important role for himself at the DFB
On the field as well, the 18-year-old has high hopes for his collaboration with Klopp. Karl sees his strengths particularly in one-on-one situations against opposing defenders. “I’m a winger, so it’s fun to always get so many passes and then dribble forward,” the offensive player explained.
Especially against teams that sit deep, fast wingers who can create danger in one-on-one situations are in high demand.
Karl is convinced that this type of player is particularly important for the German national team. “That’s always been the problem, really. We didn’t really have those one-on-one players, so it’s definitely a very, very important role.”
The young Bayern player also looks to experienced teammates like Michael Olise, from whom he picks up a lot in training.
For Karl, the DFB’s fresh start under Klopp thus offers a great opportunity to showcase his individual skills and establish himself in the national team for the long term.