Kompany insists patient Bayern will wait for Lennart Karl to rediscover form

Kompany backs Karl after injury-hit start to season

Vincent Kompany has reassured Bayern Munich fans that 18-year-old forward Lennart Karl will get the time needed to rediscover the form that marked his breakthrough campaign last season.

Karl was again named among the substitutes for Bayern’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Arsenal, despite Michael Olise being unavailable through suspension. The teenager has found opportunities harder to come by in recent weeks after an impressive breakthrough campaign last season.

Speaking after the match, Kompany acknowledged Karl is yet to return to his previous level but stressed the club’s continued support.

“The rhythm and performances will come. He’s not performing at the level he had last season, but that’s also okay,” Kompany explained. “He knows that it happens, he knows we’re patient with him. At some point his moment will come and he will show us the Lennart Karl that we all know.”

Injury setback disrupted progress

Karl enjoyed a remarkable rise last season, establishing himself as one of Bayern’s most exciting young talents thanks to his technical ability, direct attacking approach and eye for goal. That momentum was disrupted by a serious muscle injury sustained in June, which ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup.

The forward spent around 12 weeks on the sidelines before returning to action towards the end of August. Since his comeback he has been working to regain match sharpness and the form that made him an important option for Kompany during his breakthrough.

“He’s still young, he had a few injuries. It will come, I’m not worried,” Kompany added.

Fierce competition for places

Karl’s return to full fitness has coincided with strong competition for attacking positions at the Allianz Arena. Bayern boast several established options in the forward line, including Olise, Luis Díaz, Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala, while new arrival Ismail Saibari has further increased the depth available to Kompany.

Olise’s absence against Arsenal did not automatically guarantee Karl a start, underlining the challenge facing the youngster as he looks to re-establish himself.

Kompany said Bayern are not prepared to rush Karl back to his previous level and are willing to give the teenager time to regain confidence and sharpness. The immediate priority for Karl is to make the most of his opportunities as he aims to force his way back into the starting lineup.