Lennart Karl names Lionel Messi as idol and discusses height
Bayern Munich prospect Lennart Karl stated his desire to eventually join Real Madrid and named Lionel Messi as his idol during an interview with the streaming platform DAZN on October 17.
From Real Madrid Ambitions to Idolizing Lionel Messi
Karl, born in 2008, established himself as a key youth talent during the 2025-26 season by contributing to Bayern Munich’s domestic double in the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. Known for his left-foot delivery, spatial awareness, and agility, the teenager drew attention earlier this year when he told a fan club gathering that he ultimately dreams of playing for Real Madrid, leading to online backlash among supporters.
Lennart Karl on his idol Lionel Messi: "I've got the height, that's for sure [laughs]. I'd really, really love to play the way he did. He's simply an outstanding player. I watch a lot of videos of him. He's a huge role model for me. The biggest role model there is for me in… pic.twitter.com/ugy9o3HHty”
Reflecting on that period during his DAZN interview, Karl addressed the intensity of online attention. I knew that the press and Instagram and all the TikTok pages could be really hard,
Karl said, acknowledging that maintaining social media discipline is essential when form fluctuates. You have to find the right way to deal with social media.
Despite past friction over his transfer remarks, Karl shifted his focus to legendary figures in the sport, identifying Lionel Messi as his primary role model. If I could play like Messi, that would be really great,
Karl noted, before adding a lighthearted observation regarding their physical statures. Height-wise, I’m definitely a bit taller.
Official player profiles list Karl at 168 centimeters.
Karl emphasized that he frequently studies footage of the Argentine star. He is a really great player. I watch a lot of his videos. A very good role model. In football, the most important role model. I definitely want to copy Messi’s dribbling ability. And height-wise, I’ve got enough.
Disclaimer: The views and cultural analyses presented in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only. Information regarding legal disputes or financial data is based on available public records.
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