News Focus
- Eighteen-year-old Lennart Karl named in Germany’s 26-man World Cup squad following breakthrough season at Bayern Munich
- Manager Julian Nagelsmann confirms Karl is under consideration for starting role in attacking lineup
- Serge Gnabry’s long-term injury opens vacancy in Germany’s front line ahead of tournament in North America
- Teenager set for first international start in warm-up friendly against Finland this Sunday
Teenage forward Lennart Karl has earned a place in Germany’s 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America. The 18-year-old arrives at the tournament following an excellent breakthrough season with FC Bayern Munich.
The youngster won his first two caps for the senior national team in March. He made a strong impact as a substitute in matches against Switzerland and Ghana.
An injury to Serge Gnabry has opened up a position in Germany’s attack. Karl is now one of several players hoping to claim that vacant starting berth.
Manager Julian Nagelsmann spoke about the player during a media briefing on Thursday. He stated that Karl has already made a big impression, and the teenager’s performances in the coming weeks will decide his role.
Nagelsmann told reporters: “We will talk with him about whether he starts. Much depends on how he trains and plays during these preparation weeks.”
The coach added: “His beginning has been excellent. He adapted very quickly and proved his quality immediately.”
Karl is effective both as a centre forward and on the wing. Playing through the middle gives him better goal-scoring positions. Nagelsmann believes the player offers flexibility in different attacking roles.
Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz are almost certain to start. If Nagelsmann uses his usual 4-2-3-1 system, only one attacking place remains available.
Leon Goretzka could move into an attacking midfield role. Alternatively, Nagelsmann might choose a wide player like Karl, Jamie Leweling or Leroy Sané.
The coach has already tried Karl in a front three with Wirtz and Musiala during training sessions. This happened ahead of Sunday’s warm-up match against Finland.
Kai Havertz will miss the Finland game because he is playing in the Champions League final for Arsenal on Saturday. This gives Karl a big opportunity to earn his first start for the national team this weekend.
Germany will face the United States in another friendly next Saturday. If Karl performs well in these matches, he could secure a place in the starting eleven for the World Cup opener.