Matthäus backs Karl to start for Bayern against Arsenal and predicts outcome of Champions League clash

Lothar Matthäus has backed Lennart Karl to replace the suspended Luis Diaz when Bayern Munich face Arsenal in what he expects to be an even game.

Lennart Karl impressed hugely for Bayern Munich in his fifth start of the season on Saturday, scoring and assisting in his side’s 6-2 victory over SC Freiburg as he stepped in for Serge Gnabry.

While Gnabry is expected to be available for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Arsenal, Luis Diaz will miss out due to suspension.

Bayern and Germany legend Lothar Matthäus believes the 17-year-old Karl should be given another chance in the starting lineup in Diaz’s absence.

“I would definitely start Karl instead of the suspended Diaz. One should not immediately expect him to score three goals, but he can do it – he has the instinct and creates special moments,” Matthäus wrote in a column for Sky Germany.

Matthäus also revealed his expectations for Bayern’s approach and the likely outcome of the match.

“Bayern have big goals. I expect them to approach the game in London much like they did in their 2-1 win in Paris, trying to take control from the start. Bayern stands for dominance, as they showed against PSG, conceding very little in the first half,” he stated.

“The team is cohesive and confident in its strengths. The only weakness, already seen last season against Inter, is conceding goals from set pieces. In the Bundesliga, they recently conceded four goals from dead-ball situations. Coach Vincent Kompany will work on this, especially since Arsenal are very dangerous from set pieces. Bayern have physically strong and experienced players, but they will need to stay even more focused.

“I expect an evenly matched game and predict a 2-2 draw.”

The game will be played at the Emirates Stadium in London, kicking off on Wednesday at 21:00 CET.