Overview
- Karl suffered the injury during a Germany training session in Chicago on Friday and was taken to hospital for scans that confirmed the tear.
- Coaches estimate a four- to six-week recovery window for the 18-year-old, making a World Cup return impossible in the short term.
- Julian Nagelsmann immediately replaced Karl with RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouédraogo, citing the newcomer’s fitness, character, and prior impressions in camp.
- Karl’s absence removes a breakout Bayern Munich attacker who had 16 goal involvements this season and forced Germany to rethink its attacking options.
- The squad held an emotional farewell as Karl returned to Germany for treatment and Bayern and the DFB pledged support for his rehab and long-term development.