Basler follows up with criticism of Karl: Hype „is exaggerated“ | OneFootball

Lennart Karl continues to make the headlines. After his strong performances for FC Bayern, he is even being discussed as a possible World Cup candidate. While many experts are celebrating the attacking player, Mario Basler is sticking to his critical stance and is once again warning against exaggerated expectations

In an interview with the portal Absolut Fussball, the former Bayern professional initially clarified that his classification should not be understood as a general criticism of Karls‘ talent. „My opinion is not bad about him. It’s not that I’ve spoken badly about him,“ explained Basler. His point is rather the way the youngster is treated: „I just think the hype that is being made about him is extreme.“

Basler had previously expressed doubts as to whether Karl would be at FC Bayern’s level in the long term. He stands by this assessment – despite scoring more goals. „When I see how he is rated after the game against Mainz – with a grade of 2 … I saw the game and I saw relatively little of him in the second half,“ said the 56-year-old

Karl for the World Cup? Basler: „I would wait and see what happens“

Basler also criticised the view of Cologne’s Saïd El Mala: „We can just as easily go back to Saïd El Mala on Saturday, who had a good action and also got a grade 2. I just think that’s exaggerated. That doesn’t do justice to the other players either,“ said Basler. Nevertheless, he didn’t want to make a direct sporting comparison: „I don’t even know if you can compare the two like that. One plays for FC Bayern, the other for 1. FC Köln – without wanting to devalue Cologne.“

At the same time, Basler conceded that Karl has much better conditions in Munich: „I believe that as Lennart Karl, you have greater opportunities at FC Bayern. You have better teammates, you learn more, you have to assert yourself more than at 1. FC Köln.“ But that is precisely why caution is required in order not to unnecessarily increase the pressure on the teenager

photo: IMAGO

When it comes to the national team and the World Cup, Basler is also tempering expectations. „I would wait and see what happens. There’s still six months to go until the World Cup,“ he said, making it clear that consistent form is ultimately the decisive factor. At the same time, he believes that the public pressure could have an effect: „I think with the hype surrounding him, he’ll be taken along for the ride.“

Basler’s conclusion remains the same: Lennart Karl is undoubtedly „a great talent“, but the current hype is simply „exaggerated“ in his eyes.