Bayern Backs Teen Sensation Karl, Sets Firm Line on Laimer Wages

Kompany urges patience to protect the 18-year-old’s development.

Overview

Vincent Kompany dismissed Messi comparisons and said Lennart Karl needs support after an early‑2026 dip in form.
Karl was benched for a couple of games but impressed against Werder Bremen and in Friday’s 4-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach.
The forward said he dreams of making Germany’s 2026 World Cup squad and stated Bayern’s goal is to win the Champions League.
Michael Ballack, who advises Karl, publicly argued the teenager has shown enough to be considered for Julian Nagelsmann’s roster.
Bayern will not meet Konrad Laimer’s reported €15m gross salary demand and may forgo an extension without concessions, and Sport Bild reports Real Madrid are not pursuing him.