Hoeness criticizes Karl and plans talks with Bayern teenager

Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness has publicly criticized Lennart Karl, saying the 18-year-old forward has not achieved superstar standing and that he plans a serious conversation with him about his development and public profile.

Speaking to Welt am Sonntag, Hoeness questioned whether Karl had received too much protection from criticism. He said young players need humility and argued that comparisons with Bayern attacker Michael Olise were unhelpful because a substantial gap remained between them.

Bild separately reported that Bayern officials were uneasy about how frequently Karl posted about his private life on social media, including his relationship with lifestyle influencer Zoe Kappele.

Karl’s breakthrough 2025-26 season brought nine goals alongside eight assists. His goal against Club Brugge in October 2025 established him as Bayern’s youngest Champions League scorer. Aged 17, he also earned man-of-the-match honors as Bayern won 4-0.

An injury to a thigh muscle during Germany’s training camp before the World Cup ruled Karl out of the tournament. Since regaining fitness, he has struggled to return fully to the form that prompted some observers to compare him with Lionel Messi as well as Olise.