Matthäus backs Lennart Karl as Germany’s World Cup secret weapon | OneFootball

Lennart Karl is currently generating excitement at FC Bayern. The 17-year-old offensive player has made a real statement with his recent performances, especially in the Champions League – and not just in Munich. After his dream goal, the teenager was even considered a potential candidate for the German national team. However, while many are already talking about a World Cup perspective, record national player Lothar Matthäus advises caution.

In an interview with RTL/ntv, the 1990 World Cup-winning captain stated clearly: "First of all, Lennart Karl should be gradually developed and regularly get playing time at FC Bayern. It's also a basic requirement for Julian Nagelsmann that a player he takes to the World Cup plays regularly." For Matthäus, it is "premature to talk about the national team now."

The record national player explicitly praises Karl's talent but emphasizes that the German record champion will "build up the youngster very slowly and carefully." This is exactly the right way to achieve long-term success.

Matthäus sees parallels to El Mala – and warns the media

Despite his cautionary words, it is also clear to Matthäus: Lennart Karl has exceptional skills. "He is definitely talented," said the former Bayern star. If the youngster continues "scoring goals like against Bruges," he could even become "a bit of a secret weapon for the 2026 German national team."

Matthäus also draws parallels to another Bundesliga shooting star: Cologne's Saïd El Mala. Here too, the 63-year-old advocates for patience. "We know the media, we know ourselves – we would best start making comparisons now: with Ronaldo, with Messi in their younger years. Strong dribbling, strong finishing. But as I said: let's not get ahead of ourselves," Matthäus said with a smile.

Both talents, Karl and El Mala, are, according to Matthäus, a glimmer of hope for German football. "This is something German football can look forward to in the future," he stated clearly.

"He should enjoy the moment without pressure now"

At FC Bayern itself, the development of the 17-year-old is also being handled carefully. Internally, Karl is considered one of the greatest offensive talents of his generation. His dynamism, technique, and goal instinct are reminiscent of former top stars of Munich, but those responsible, including coach Vincent Kompany, know: A controlled development process is crucial.

Vincent Kompany places great importance on allowing Karl to continue his development undisturbed: "As a young player, you don't have this pressure. I want Lennart to feel that too. He has to enjoy it. If he makes mistakes, we will discuss them. At some point, the pressure will hopefully come onto his shoulders. But for now, he should enjoy the moment without pressure."

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.