Curious: Bayern youngster Karl has to pay a fine after U21 debut | OneFootball

Bayern talent Lennart Karl made an immediate impact in his first game for the German U21 team – but he still had to pay the price after the 6-0 win against Malta. The reason: a broken tradition in the dressing room.

The stage was big, the reaction impressive. Lennart Karl celebrated a debut in the European Championship qualifier against Malta that will not soon be forgotten. The 17-year-old FC Bayern attacker scored two goals, making him the second-youngest goalscorer in German U21 history.

A rocket start – but the real surprise came after the final whistle.

Karl refuses to sing his debut song – teammates set penalty

For years, it has been a rule in the U21 squad that newcomers have to sing in front of the team after their first game. A ritual to loosen up, an act of integration – but Lennart Karl blocked it.

„Lennart has to pay now, for sure!“ explained team-mate Tom Bischof, who himself excelled with three goals. „He didn’t want to sing, he’s too anxious for that. But he doesn’t have to buy us beer, we don’t need that. But sweets, we’ll take them.“

One thing is clear: the dressing room took it with humor – and yet Karl was not spared a small punishment for refusing to sing his debut song.

Praise from Bischof and Di Salvo – but also a clear warning

Karl left a lasting impression in sporting terms. Tom Bischof had clear words of praise: „The boy has developed really well, even at Bayern. When he’s on the ball, you know something good is going to happen. No unnecessary overstepping, always with purpose – a finish, a pass, a cross. Everyone saw that he’s got what it takes.“

U21 coach Toni Di Salvo was also impressed, but at the same time urged caution: „Lennart was very refreshing, had a lot of good actions and scored twice. But he’s a young lad who still has a lot to learn. He has to continue playing for the club and show what he can do – that’s the most important criterion.“

The German U21s continue their campaign next Tuesday with a crucial European Championship qualifier in Georgia. The team urgently needs points to stay in contention at the top of the table.