Germany’s Lennart Karl Withdraws from World Cup 2026 Due to Injury

Bayern Munich’s promising talent, Lennart Karl, has been forced to withdraw from Germany’s squad for the 2026 World Cup following an injury.

The 18-year-old was set to make his debut in an international tournament with the senior national team after a successful season with Bayern, where he scored nine goals and provided eight assists in 40 matches.

Karl received his first international cap in March and was included in coach Julian Nagelsmann’s final 26-man roster for the upcoming World Cup after a standout performance.

Last week, he played 73 minutes and assisted a goal during Germany’s 4-0 friendly victory over Finland, looking forward to the final warm-up match against co-hosts USA.

Unfortunately, during training, Karl sustained a muscle fibre tear in the back of his left thigh, leading to his hospitalization for tests. It has now been confirmed that he will miss the tournament. RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouedraogo, aged 20, will take his place in the squad.

© Imago / Brauer-Fotoagentur.

Lennart Karl Excluded from World Cup Due to Injury

“I feel incredibly sorry for Lenny,” Nagelsmann stated as reported by the German Football Association (DFB). “His fearlessness, creativity, speed, and personality made him an excellent fit for the team.”.

“It’s a huge shock for him and all of us that he will miss the World Cup. The only consolation is that he is young and has many tournaments ahead of him. We would have loved to have him in our lineup.”.

“In Assan Ouedraogo, we are bringing in another player who has also started excellently with us. He is highly talented and should bring courage and freedom to our play.”.

Ouedraogo made his sole international appearance for Germany in November 2025 and had a productive season with Leipzig, scoring four goals and providing four assists in 20 matches.

© Iconsport / Heiko Becker/HMB Media.

Bayern Munich Offers Support to Karl Following Injury Setback

Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl expressed his shock and sadness regarding Karl’s injury news.

“Missing out on a World Cup at the last minute is incredibly painful, and this news shocked everyone at FC Bayern. However, Lenny possesses immense talent, passion, and potential,” Eberl remarked.

“He deserved to be at this World Cup after his outstanding first season as a professional.”.

“Lenny will receive all necessary support at FC Bayern. He will return to the pitch as soon as possible – we know he has many significant tournaments ahead.”.

Eberl added that Karl is optimistic about returning stronger: “That’s what I admire about him; it’s this resilience that is needed during tough times.”.

The only other injury concern for Germany currently involves veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who is hoping to recover from a calf strain before their Group E opener against Curacao in Houston on June 14.

Germany will also face Ivory Coast in Toronto on June 20 before concluding their group-stage matches against Ecuador in New Jersey on June 25.