Nagelsmann explains why Ouedraogo was picked over El Mala

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann outlined the injury to Lennart Karl and the reasoning behind a surprise late call-up on the eve of the national team's friendly against the USA in Chicago. Karl suffered a torn muscle during Saturday's final training session and will miss the World Cup.

Nagelsmann said the injury occurred "in the middle of a practice match," on "a relatively simple shot," and added, "I feel genuinely sorry for Lenny." The 18-year-old is expected to be sidelined for "four to six weeks, perhaps a little longer." Instead of bringing in a like-for-like winger — with Said El Mala, Kevin Schade, Karim Adeyemi or Chris Führich among potential options — Nagelsmann called up RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouedraogo.

The coach said the choice was driven less by position and more by the impression Ouedraogo made during his previous DFB camp, his character and his current condition.

USA, Chicago

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