With only days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, Germany have suffered a major setback.

Lennart Karl, the 18-year-old who shone for Bayern Munich this season has suffered a muscle injury which has ended his World Cup dream before it even began.

Assan Ouedraogo Called up as Replacement

The German wonder kid suffered an injury during a training session in Chicago on Friday, meaning his place in the squad has gone to RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouedraodo.

Germany don't kick off their World Cup campaign until next Sunday when they face off against tournament debutants Curacao.

Torn Muscle Ends Karl's World Cup Dream

Despite FIFA allowing teams to replace players up to 24 hours before their first game, Germany have acted immediately in bringing in Ouedraogo,.

This instant action gave some indication regarding the severity of Karl's injury.

Immediately after the incident, which the DFB have since confirmed is a torn muscle, German coach Julian Nagelsmann expected the worst, saying the injury: "Didn't look so good."

The Rise Of Germany's Latest Wonderkid

Lennart Karl had a breakthrough season at the Allianz Arena. He became Bayern's youngest-ever Champions League goalscorer in October.

He quickly became an integral part of the Bayern squad, making 39 appearances in all competitions, and made his international debut in March this year.

But unfortunately the exciting attacker will have to wait for his World Cup moment.

Karl's replacement will be hoping to play his part after initially missing out on the 26-man squad.

20-year-old Ouedraogo has had his own break-out season at RB Leipzig, and has attracted interest from across Europe, especially the English Premier League.

What Ouedraogo Brings To Germany's Squad

Primarily a box-to-box midfielder, Ouedraogo combines power, speed and technique and will be hoping to show his worth on the biggest stage.

He made his German debut in November, coming off the bench to score in a 6-0 win over Slovakia.

Nagelsmann's side are preparing to face the USA today in their final warm-up game, and it seems the manager wants the new man involved straight away.

Germany arrive at the World Cup under the radar, with few giving the four-time winners a chance in North America.

However, with attacking talent like Florian Wirtz, Kai Havertz, and Jamal Musiala, is would be dangerous to sleep on Nagelsmann's side.