Lennart Karl is one of FC Bayern’s biggest talents. However, following his impressive breakthrough last season, things aren’t going smoothly for the 18-year-old right now. In the Champions League showdown against Arsenal (2–2), the attacking player was once again forced to sit on the bench. Many fans had expected Karl to replace the suspended Michael Olise in the starting lineup. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany has now explained why he decided against fielding the youngster.

Expectations for Karl have risen enormously following his strong debut season. With his carefree style, speed, and technical skills, the attacking player quickly made a name for himself.

But since his serious injury this summer, the Bayern gem has been struggling to regain his former form. Kompany sees no cause for concern and is, above all, being patient with his protégé.

Kompany admits: Karl isn’t in top form yet

When asked about Karl’s surprising omission from the starting lineup against Arsenal, the Bayern coach was clear. “His rhythm and performances will come in time. He’s not yet playing at last season’s level, but that’s okay,” Kompany explained.

At the same time, the Belgian made it clear that Karl continues to enjoy the full confidence of the coaching staff. “He knows that things like this happen, and he knows that we’re patient with him. Eventually, his moment will come, and he’ll show us the Lennart Karl we all know.”

In fact, the 18-year-old has been through a difficult period. In June, Karl suffered a torn muscle and consequently missed the 2026 World Cup.

It wasn’t until late August that the forward returned to the field after about twelve weeks on the sidelines. Since then, he’s been working to regain his rhythm and his former fluidity.

Karl will have to hold his own against strong competition

In addition to the physical consequences of his injury, the intense competition at FC Bayern also poses a challenge.

With Michael Olise, Luis Díaz, Serge Gnabry, Jamal Musiala, and new signing Ismail Saibari, Kompany has numerous top-tier options for the offense.

Even Olise’s absence against Arsenal did not automatically lead to a starting spot for Karl.

For Kompany, however, the focus is on the young player’s athletic development. The Bayern coach is convinced that Karl will return to his former form. “He’s still young; he’s had a few injuries. It’ll work out again—I’m not worried.”

In doing so, Kompany is deliberately taking the pressure off his young player. Instead of overwhelming him after his long injury layoff, Karl is expected to regain his former form step by step.

The Bayern coach’s message is clear: Karl must earn his place on the team all over again, but he’ll be given the time and support he needs to do so.

This article was translated into English by AI. You can read the original version here https://fcbinside.de/2026/10/22/bayern-sorgenkind-kompany-spricht-klartext-ueber-lennart-karl/.