Bayern Munich's young player Lennart Karl has dismissed being compared to Lionel Messi. He thinks that the Argentine icon is one of the best in the game, and he is far from reaching that level.
Karl has been one of the young talents in the Bundesliga this season. Promoted to the senior team by manager Vincent Kompany at the start of the current season, the 17-year-old has surpassed his expectations, becoming a regular for the German club.
Karl's talent has drawn him comparisons to club legends Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, and even Messi. The Germany U-21 star showed his quality once more, collecting a goal and an assist as Kompany's side claimed a 6-2 comeback win at home against Freiburg on Saturday, November 22.
He became the youngest player in Bayern's history to score and assist in a single Bundesliga game.
After another impressive game, Karl was asked about being compared to the legend, Lionel Messi, during a post-match interview with Sky. He downplayed the claims and named the Inter Miami star his idol, saying:
“Other people said that. I can’t compare myself to Messi. Messi is right at the top and there’s a long way to go to reach that. He’s my idol.”
Karl has appeared in nine of Bayern's 11 league games this season, amassing two goals and two assists. Overall, he has registered three goals and as many assists in 14 games across all competitions.