Lennart Karl opens up on role models

Bayern Munich wonderkid Lennart Karl had a clear role model while growing up.

“Since my childhood, it’s been very clear that Lionel Messi is my idol,” Karl said in an interview with the German Football Association.

The Argentine maestro, who starred for FC Barcelona in his prime, is now playing with Inter Miami in the United States.

“Unfortunately, I haven’t played against him yet,” Karl added with a laugh.

The 17-year-old also spoke about the players who inspire him to take the next step in his development at Bayern Munich.

“I learn a lot from my attacking teammates, especially from the movements of Michael Olise and Luis Díaz. Of course, you can pick up things from them, but you also have to show your own strengths,” he said.

“Working with a coach like Vincent Kompany naturally makes me better day by day. In the first month or two with the team, I didn’t speak much, but now it’s completely normal for me to interact with my teammates off the pitch as well.”