Blow to Germany as Bayern Munich star misses FIFA World Cup 2026
By Joel Masibo, June 6, 2026Germany’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup have suffered a significant setback after promising forward Lennart Karl was ruled out of the tournament through injury.
The disappointing development cast a gloomy atmosphere over the German camp in Chicago, according to German Football Association president Bernd Neuendorf.
Mood within Germany camp
Speaking about the mood within the squad, Neuendorf revealed that emotions ran high when players learned of Karl’s diagnosis after the young Bayern Munich attacker returned from hospital.
“Some tears were rolling,” Neuendorf said.
Germany are scheduled to face the United States in their final warm-up match on Saturday, June 6, 2026, before opening their Group E campaign against Curacao a week later. However, the 18-year-old striker will play no part in the tournament after sustaining a severe muscle injury.
Karl, who had successfully forced his way into the starting team ahead of the World Cup, struggled to hide his disappointment.
“Can’t tell you how much it hurts to take this,” Karl said.
The youngster’s injury is not the only issue troubling coach Julian Nagelsmann. Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is still working his way back to peak condition after recently dealing with a calf injury.
Although Neuer was restored as Germany’s number one goalkeeper shortly before the tournament, he will not feature against the United States and remains a doubt for the opening World Cup fixture.
Nagelsmann maintained that Neuer’s recovery remains on course, but admitted Karl’s injury had come as a major disappointment. Reports suggest that Assan Ouedraogo of Leipzig is set to replace him in the squad. The 20-year-old, who has made one senior international appearance, was reportedly informed while vacationing in Spain.
Massive blow
Reflecting on Karl’s absence, Nagelsmann described it as a “shock for us all,” highlighting the teenager’s impact through his “youthful nonchalance, his speed and unpredictable game.”
Karl is expected to return to Germany to continue his rehabilitation with Bayern Munich’s medical staff. The teenager expressed his heartbreak at missing football’s biggest stage.
“I can’t find words to describe what it means to miss such a tournament,” Karl said. Despite the setback, Nagelsmann urged his players to remain focused on the challenge ahead. “Sadly enough, injuries can be part of football,” he said.