German star Lennart Karl’s World Cup debut is in jeopardy after the youngster suffered an injury in training on Friday.
The 18-year-old Bayern Munich forward picked up an injury during the final training session ahead of Saturday’s World Cup warm-up match in Chicago against the United States.
"We’ll have to see how things go for the tournament," said Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, clearly concerned. "To be honest, it didn’t look too good."
Karl, who has three international caps, is seen as a rising star for the German side. He made his first start for Germany in the 4-0 win against Finland on Sunday in Mainz, impressing in attacking midfield.
The youngster was taken to hospital and will require a diagnosis before it can be determined whether a replacement must be called up, Nagelsmann added.
According to FIFA regulations, Nagelsmann is permitted to replace injured outfield players in his squad until one day before the team’s opening match against Curaçao on June 14.
Possible candidates include 19-year-old Cologne forward Said El Mala and Stuttgart’s Chris Führich.
Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, meanwhile, must wait to stand again between the posts for the national team as he will miss the match against the US as a precaution.
Neuer retired from international football after Euro 2024 but was called back to the squad for the World Cup despite nursing a minor calf injury.
"He's doing well, he's on his way to peak fitness. Nevertheless, we don't want to take any risks tomorrow," Nagelsmann said.
Neuer is expected to join team training next week and be fit for the World Cup opener against Curaçao.
