Ouedraogo to replace injured Karl in German squad
Young German striker Lennart Karl will miss the 2026 World Cup after suffering an injury during training, the German Football Association announced.
The federation said in a statement: “Lennart Karl suffered a muscle tear during the last training session, and as a result of this injury he will miss the tournament. We wish him a speedy recovery.”
The German national team called up Leipzig midfielder Assane Ouedraogo to replace the 18-year-old Bayern Munich player.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann had said earlier in Chicago that Karl’s injury “doesn’t look good,” noting that he had been taken to the hospital for tests.
Karl’s absence is a blow to Germany, as he was one of the biggest surprises of the Bundesliga season after making his debut in the top division this season, and quickly established himself in the squad of Belgian coach Vincent Kompany, which won the league and cup titles.
Karl made his debut for the German national team in last Sunday’s 4-0 win over Finland, during which he provided an assist.
