Who is Leonard Prescott? 16-year-old goalkeeper could make Bayern debut against Atalanta in Champions League | OneFootball

Bayern Munich find themselves in a highly unusual situation on the goalkeeper front, with all four of their senior shot-stoppers out injured.

Sven Ulreich, Bayern's third-choice goalkeeper, featured in the 1-1 Bundesliga draw against Bayer Leverkusen over the weekend, filling in for Manuel Neuer (calf strain) and Jonas Urbig (concussion). Unfortunately, Ulreich suffered a muscle bundle tear during the match, with Bild reporting he could be sidelined for six weeks.

Meanwhile, fourth-choice goalkeeper 19-year-old Leon Klanac is out with a thigh injury, opening the door for 16-year-old Leonard Prescott to potentially make his Bayern debut when the German champions face Atalanta on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie.

Jonas Urbig, who sustained a concussion in the first leg, will be assessed shortly before the game. Given Bayern's comfortable 6-1 lead from the first leg, it's unlikely they will risk him if he's not fully fit. This gives Prescott a genuine chance to feature, with Kicker reporting that the coaching staff has full confidence in him.

Who is Leonard Prescott?

Born in New York and holding dual citizenship, Prescott began his youth career at 1. FC Union Berlin before joining Bayern's academy in 2023.

Since then, he has made 16 appearances for Bayern’s U19s, including four in the UEFA Youth League. 

He has also represented Germany at youth level with six U17 caps and three U16 appearances.

Prescott was first called up to Bayern’s senior squad for the first leg against Atalanta and was on the bench for the Bayer Leverkusen draw at the weekend.

The 16-year-old has earned high praise from Bayern U19 coach Peter Gaydarov, who previously said:

"He's technically outstanding – you feel like he could play outfield. He's very courageous in his actions and definitely very advanced for his age."

Interestingly, Prescott has previously worked as a ball boy at Allianz Arena, stationed behind Manuel Neuer's goal to study his idol’s technique. Now, he could potentially get the sensational opportunity to stand in that goal himself.