Overview
- After a goal and an assist in Bayern’s 6–2 win over Freiburg, Karl was praised as a key player by sporting director Max Eberl.
- Karl left in the 71st minute with a hip knock from training but said he is fine, and he is in contention for Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Arsenal.
- Post-match, he said he hopes for Germany’s 2026 World Cup consideration while focusing on Bayern; he has had no direct contact with Julian Nagelsmann and recently scored three goals in two U21 games.
- Coach Vincent Kompany and club officials urge restraint on Messi comparisons and say their priority is helping Karl become the best version of himself.
- Media reports say Karl’s August deal includes performance-linked pay escalators and an automatic extension when he turns 18, tying rewards to continued first-team impact.