‘German Messi’: 17-year-old Bayern’s Lennart Karl looking for World Cup spot after breaking Champions League record
Lennart Karl, the 17-year-old Bayern Munich sensation, is being called the "German Messi" for his rapid ascent in football. He became the youngest player to score in three consecutive UCL games.
Lennart Karl has become the youngest player to score in three consecutive UCL games.
Last Updated: 07.14 PM, Dec 10, 2025
Lennart Karl is only 17, but the Bayern Munich prodigy is already being hailed as the “German Messi” and tipped for a rapid rise all the way to the World Cup. The attacking midfielder has exploded onto the European stage this season, becoming the youngest player in Champions League history to score in three consecutive games and transforming from academy prospect to headline act almost overnight. His fearless dribbling, close control, and eye for goal have made him the Bundesliga’s newest sensation and one of the most talked‑about teenagers in world football.
Who is Lnnart Karl?
Born in 2008 in Germany, Lennart Karl joined Bayern Munich's youth academy at a young age, quickly rising through the ranks with his exceptional technical ability and flair.
A versatile attacking midfielder who can play on either wing or as a No. 10, Karl draws comparisons to Lionel Messi due to his low center of gravity, mesmerising dribbling, and knack for unlocking defenses in tight spaces.
He made his senior debut for Bayern earlier this season amid injuries to key players, and has since become a regular, scoring crucial goals, including Bayern's lone strike in their Champions League win over Arsenal at the Emirates.
At 17 years and some months, he shattered records by netting in three straight UCL matches, outpacing even legends like Messi and Ronaldo at that age. Off the pitch, Karl is known for his maturity, humility, and work ethic, traits that have endeared him to coaches and teammates alike.
Karl made his Germany U21 debut in November, and is yet to make his senior debut for the German National Team.
The ‘German Messi’ in making
Karl’s breakthrough has been as spectacular as it has been swift. Thrown into Bayern’s Champions League campaign earlier than many expected, he has responded by tormenting some of Europe’s best defences, leaving seasoned professionals chasing shadows.
His record‑breaking run of goals on the continent includes Bayern’s only strike away at Arsenal this season, a composed finish at the Emirates that underlined his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
For a player barely out of school, his decision‑making and composure under pressure have stood out as much as his technical brilliance.
Inside the Bayern dressing room, however, Karl’s rise has not come as a shock. Teammates had long spoken about his talent in training, and no one has been more vocal than Harry Kane.
The England captain, who knows a thing or two about performing at an elite level, has been effusive in his praise, describing Karl as “a fantastic player” and highlighting that he is “not afraid to dribble” and take responsibility in tight spaces. Kane has suggested that if the youngster continues at this level, a place in Germany’s World Cup squad next year is a genuine possibility.
Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany said after Bayern had gained their fifth Champions League win out of six: "Lenny is always dangerous. To be completely honest, he's had better games, but four or five times, he's always there when he needs to be. He gets his moments, and then he just kills."
He then went on to add, "He can head the ball, and he can shoot with both his left and right foot, and he has that feel that you can't teach a coach; you can only support him where you can."
“Making sure I am fit every week:” Karl
After winning the Player of the Match award in the match against Sporting Lisbon in the UEFA Champions League, Karl said, "I'm just very happy right now. I’m working really hard on my performances, on my body, and making sure I’m fit every week.”
“I’m learning so much with Harry Kane, Joshua Kimmich, and everyone around me. It allows me to show my football. They play passes to me, I play passes back – they’re great team-mates, and that makes it a lot of fun."