Lennart Karl has faced his first significant criticism after making his maiden Bundesliga start for Bayern Munich. The 17-year-old wonderkid's performance in Die Roten's 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim last Saturday raised a few eyebrows, particularly from former Bayern winger Mario Basler, who was not fully satisfied by Karl's outing as a starter under Vincent Kompany.

Highly-rated Karl makes first start for Bayern

Hot prospect Karl was handed his much-anticipated first-ever start in the German top-flight for Bayern during Saturday's comfortable 4-1 win over Hoffenheim. The young attacker played 62 minutes before being hooked for Michael Olise. Karl was impressive during the pre-season, but was frustrated by the lack of minutes in the opening weeks of the 2025-26 season. 

AdvertisementGettyBasler unimpressed by rising star's display

"If you say he's the biggest talent at FC Bayern at the moment, then I have to say there's still a lot missing," Basler complained in his podcast .  "People have been praising him to the skies for months. If I get the chance from the start, then I have to show my talent too. It has nothing to do with his age, I simply expect more. But there was nothing there. That has to be said clearly and unequivocally. And you can't take his age or anything else into consideration, there was simply too little there."

Karl assisted Harry Kane opener against Hoffenheim

Although Karl's performance was not invulnerable to criticism, the 17-year-old showed flashes of his brilliance in his maiden start. The youngster assisted Kane's opening goal from a corner routine, highlighting how lethal he can be in the final third despite not having his best game. 

GettyWhat's up next for Bayern?

The Bavarian giants will aim to extend their flawless start to the season when they Werder Bremen at home on Friday.