Lennart Karl is currently going through a difficult phase at FC Bayern. After the youngster had generated excitement last season with strong performances, spectacular dribbles, and impressive goals, things aren’t going nearly as well for him right now. Most recently, even Uli Hoeneß took notice of the young offensive talent’s development. However, sporting director Max Eberl is now explicitly coming to the young Bayern star’s defense.
The numbers aren’t looking good for Karl right now. So far this season, the attacking player has logged fewer than 300 minutes of playing time and has just one point. His only goal so far came in the victory over SV Elversberg, when he put Munich ahead 1-0.
Added to this are the consequences of his muscle injury, which cost him a spot on the World Cup roster this summer. After his extended forced break, Karl has not yet regained his usual fluidity.
Eberl: “A completely normal process for a young professional”
At the press conference ahead of the Bundesliga away game against SC Freiburg, Eberl was asked about the youngster’s slump in form. The 53-year-old didn’t seem particularly concerned. “What’s happening with Lenny is a perfectly normal process for a young professional. Everyone—and perhaps Lenny himself—expects things to always continue the way they did last season. That’s also perfectly normal,” explained Bayern’s sporting director.
For Eberl, it’s part of a young player’s development that difficult phases follow a successful breakthrough.
At the same time, one must not overlook the special circumstances of last summer. The injury and missing the World Cup would have put additional strain on Karl. “But he had the injury, he missed the World Cup, and of course that takes a toll on a player.”
Bayern continues to place its full trust in Karl
Despite his limited playing time and his recent dip in form, the record champions have no fundamental doubts about the offensive talent’s potential. “We’re supporting him through this and are convinced that he’ll return to his previous level,” Eberl emphasized.
In doing so, the sporting director strikes a slightly different tone than honorary president Uli Hoeneß, who recently announced his intention to seek a personal conversation with Karl.
On the field, the youngster could be called upon more frequently in the coming weeks. With Luis Díaz sidelined for an extended period, the team is missing a key offensive threat, while Jamal Musiala continues to work toward his return.
Given the demanding schedule—which includes the Bundesliga, the DFB Cup, and the Champions League—the Munich team will need additional options on offense.
This presents Karl with an opportunity to prove himself worthy of more playing time. Eberl makes it clear, however, that Bayern intends to show the necessary patience with their young talent. A temporary dip in form should not alter the club’s long-term confidence in him.