Germany wrestled Ghana to a 2-1 victory at home in Stuttgart in the international break. With only a couple of friendlies left in June before the FIFA World Cup, head coach Julian Nagelsmann gave some positive updates about Lennart Karl. However despite being impressed with the Bayern Munich teenager, Nagelsmann did not confirm whether Karl would be traveling to USA for the WC.
Following the win over Ghana, the German coach was asked about Karl’s chances for the World Cup. “Lenny made a great impression
in both games. He’s a very good player. That was a small step forward. Now I hope he stays humble, keeps pushing and gets a few more appearances at Bayern. Of all the young players we’ve had here so far, he’s been one of the best,” replied Nagelsmann (Kerry Hau via @iMiaSanMia).
The teen supersub
Regardless of what Nagelsmann says, Karl has cleared showed that he can bring creativity and energy to the team. His abilities as a foxy left winger or as an attacking midfielder would be a potent weapon for the Germans.
World Cups often feature stubborn defenses that do not tire for long periods. Karl is tailor-made for situations where he is needed to unlock defenses that throw numbers behind the ball. He is comfortable when he is surrounded and needs a way out. In the friendlies against the Swiss and Ghana, Karl made 5 successful dribbles and created five chances in a total of 73 minutes played. There is nothing against starting him in the XI, however the super-sub role is where he can really shine against even the best teams and return a lot of value for Germany at the WC. Will he get the chance?
