„Many similarities with Messi“: expert raves about Karl | OneFootball

Lennart Karl continues to generate enthusiasm at FC Bayern – now even with a comparison that could hardly be greater. Didi Hamann sees parallels to Lionel Messi in the attacking jewel

„I think he’s an exceptional player. What he achieved at the age of 17 is sensational,“ the former Bayern professional enthused in an interview with Thunderpick. Karl played a key role, especially before the winter break. „He really carried FC Bayern Munich’s attack,“ said Hamann

While Harry Kane and Michael Olise were „somewhat reserved“ at times, Karl „did everything, prepared and scored goals“

„Many similarities“ with Messi

photo: Getty Images

Hamann is relaxed about the fact that the youngster has recently experienced a slight dip in performance: „That’s understandable and normal at that age.“ The decisive factor, he says, is the exceptional overall package that Karl already brings to the table

And this is precisely where the TV pundit draws the big parallel: „When you see him play, he’s left-footed, has a low centre of gravity and isn’t the tallest. The way he moves, the way he lowers his shoulders – that’s a fair comparison,“ said Hamann, referring to Messi

Of course, the 50-year-old also put things into perspective: „Nobody is saying that Karl will automatically reach the level of the Argentinian world champion. Messi has been at the top for 15 years.“ But if you look at footage of Messi at 17 or 18 and put it next to Karl’s scenes, you will see „many similarities“

Bayern relies on patience

FC Bayern are aware of the attacking player’s enormous potential, but are deliberately treating him with caution. Karl is seen internally as a long-term project – both in sporting and strategic terms. His contract was only recently extended until 2029. FCB are already aiming for a new extension and would like to tie the youngster to them until 2031

His technical skills, his speed in confined spaces and his understanding of the game make him one of the most exciting talents in Europe. Only time will tell whether the Messi comparison will ultimately bear fruit, but one thing is already clear: Lennart Karl has sparked a hype at FC Bayern that has even experienced experts talking big.