Hoeness says criticism helped Bayern teenager Lennart Karl find form

Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness believes his public criticism of Lennart Karl played a part in the teenager’s recent run of form.

Karl has scored three goals in consecutive matches since Hoeness said he wanted to have a serious conversation with the youngster about staying humble.

The 18-year-old has been given increased opportunities in the Bayern Munich team since Luis Diaz was injured during the 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw with Arsenal at the Allianz Arena last month.

“I think I played a part in 50% of his goals in recent days because someone made a comment about his private life,” Hoeness told a reporter.

Hoeness had previously spoken to Welt am Sonntag about Karl, saying he wanted to discuss the importance of remaining grounded with the highly rated youngster.

He said those in senior positions at clubs had a responsibility to help young players manage the attention and influences that come with an early breakthrough.

“We also have a responsibility to give young players guidance. I have so much experience, and if an 18-year-old can’t learn something from me, then we might as well give up,” said Hoeness.

“People in charge at the clubs are responsible for bringing young players back down to earth a little bit. I don’t need to do anything with someone like Harry Kane.

“But with an 18-year-old who has no experience dealing with these outside influences, those in positions of responsibility – and I see myself as one of them – sometimes [I] have to speak up.”

Karl’s improved form has now been recognised with a call-up to the Germany senior squad.

The teenager has joined the national team for their Nations League matches against Serbia and the Netherlands in Group A2 this month.