Real Madrid missed out on the signing of 17-year-old Bayern Munich wonderkid after offering trial | OneFootball

Lennart Karl is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about teenage talents in German football. 

At just 17 years of age, the attacking midfielder, who can also operate comfortably on the wing, has already carved out a significant role at Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany. 

With 20 appearances to his name and an impressive return of six goals, Karl is not merely participating – he is influencing games at the highest level.

Such has been the scale of his impact that comparisons with Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal have begun to surface in Germany. 

The similarities lie not just in age, but in personality on the pitch. Yet, as his reputation continues to grow, a remarkable backstory has now emerged, one that directly involves Real Madrid.

What’s the story?

According to journalist Sebastian Leisgang, while speaking on the podcast Und nun zum Sport, relayed by AS, Karl’s career path could have taken a very different direction. 

Years before Bayern entered the picture, Real Madrid had already identified his talent and even invited him to Spain for a trial.

“He had a trial with Real Madrid when he was 10. There were regional trials in Germany, one of them in Großkrotzenburg, in the Aschaffenburg region. 

Lennart Karl could have joined Real Madrid. (Picture courtesy: AS)

“From there, he advanced to the next round, which was held in Memmingen. 

“There, he was successful again and was invited to Madrid and allowed to play at the venerable Bernabeu.”

The experience alone was extraordinary for a child of that age. Few players can say they set foot on the Bernabeu before their teenage years. 

Why did the move fail?

Karl reportedly impressed during that trial to the point where Real Madrid actively explored the possibility of signing him. 

However, despite the sporting interest, the move ultimately collapsed. “The agreement with Real Madrid didn’t come to fruition. 

“His father told me that he was very happy with how things turned out, as he felt that it wasn’t really about his son, but about negotiating contracts with big consulting firms. 

“That’s why it failed, and in hindsight, the family has no regrets about not signing with Madrid.”

That decision now looks increasingly significant, as Karl is breaking records with Bayern Munich, developing within one of Europe’s most competitive environments, and thriving under a coach who trusts young players.