Renato Karl
Country: Germany
Club: Bayern Munich
Age: 18
Position: Attacking midfielder
After taking the senior football world by storm with Bayern Munich, Germany’s most exciting prospect was given his first chance to shine on the international stage during the international break, and he grabbed it with both hands.
Lennart Karl, who only turned 18 in February, missed the phone call from German national team coach Julian Nagelsmann informing him of his first first-team call-up as he was still receiving coaching. His performance belied his age.
The left-footed attacking midfielder made his debut for Germany, coming off the bench with 30 minutes left in a dramatic 4-3 friendly win against Switzerland, and played the full game in the second half against Ghana. Naglesman made no secret of his excitement for Karl.
“He left a very strong impression,” said the German national team coach. “Bold, but also humble. He has taken his first small steps into the top national team. He has already taken a few more steps at Bayern, but it is only the beginning of the race. Of all the young players we have called up so far, he has made the best impression.”
Karl, who has eight goals and five assists in 35 appearances for Bayern, made his first senior appearance in football less than a year ago and now has his eyes set on this summer’s World Cup.
“I’m not putting any pressure on myself,” Karl said after his initial call-up. “I just have to play my football and hope things go well and we can qualify for the World Cup.”
With a natural ability to effortlessly evade opponents, a confidence beyond his years, and the ability to power through in front of goal, Karl has overcome every challenge in his stride.
The pressure of starring at one of the world’s biggest clubs has not fazed him yet. If given the chance, you can count on Karl.
