Germany's Lennart Karl Injured, World Cup Hopes Dim

Germany's national football team faces a potential blow with the suspected serious injury of 18-year-old attacker Lennart Karl. Karl sustained the injury during the final training session ahead of Saturday's friendly match against World Cup co-host USA.

“

It doesn't look good.

"It doesn't look good," said national coach Julian Nagelsmann at a press conference in Chicago. "He is now going to the hospital for examination." The diagnosis will determine if Karl can participate in the World Cup. If he is unable to play, the German Football Association (DFB) team will nominate a replacement.

“

He is now going to the hospital for examination.

Karl had recently impressed as a right winger in the starting lineup against Finland, contributing significantly and initiating several goals. Leroy Sané is reportedly the first replacement, with Kai Havertz also available after missing the Finland match and scoring in the Champions League final. Other potential replacements mentioned include Said El Mala, who scored 13 goals in the past Bundesliga season, and defenders Yann Bisseck and striker Nicolò Tresoldi, who narrowly missed the 26-man squad.

“

He's doing well. He is on the way to best fitness.

Additionally, the expected return of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is further delayed. Nagelsmann confirmed that the 40-year-old will be rested against the USA due to a calf muscle issue. However, he reassured that Neuer is "on the way to best fitness" and will be ready for the World Cup opener against Curaçao, though no risks will be taken in the upcoming friendly.

“

We still don't want to take any risks tomorrow.