At this point, one can expect some kind of public outrage whenever Bayern Munich’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß speaks publicly. Hoeneß has more recently drawn attention for his comments on Jamal Musiala’s situation, but before then he spoke critically of Bayern youngster Lennart Karl. Karl’s agent, Michael Ballack, duly fired back and caused a stir in the media before things recently calmed down.
Of course, Karl is not one to cower under pressure. After a few weeks filled with inconsistent performances,
the former Eintracht Frankfurt youth player netted the crucial opening goal against Atlético Madrid and took the chance—after celebrating with his teammates in the corner—to make a speaking gesture with his hands next to his ears. This was seen as an indication of how little he cared about the noise his critics were making.
Was this celebration aimed at Hoeneß? Asked this question by a reporter, the 74-year-old had this to say (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).
“That doesn’t bother me. I think I played a part in 50% of his goals in recent days because someone made a comment about his private life. We also have a responsibility to give young players guidance. I have so much experience, and if an 18-year-old can’t learn something from me, then we might as well give up. People in charge at the clubs are responsible for bringing young players back down to earth a little bit. I don’t need to do anything with someone like Harry Kane. But with an 18-year-old who has no experience dealing with these outside influences, those in positions of responsibility — and I see myself as one of them — sometimes have to speak up,” Hoeneß said.
Regardless of how it happened, Karl’s last two games before the international break saw notable improvements in his form. He now joins up with Germany with more confidence and form than during the last international break. One hopes he can maintain this level and bring it back to Munich once the club season restarts.
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