by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, June 6 (Xinhua) -- German Football Association president Bernd Neuendorf described a subdued mood at the national team's hotel in Chicago.
"Some tears were rolling," Neuendorf said after the squad gathered in the lobby to greet Bayern Munich youngster Lennart Karl, who returned from hospital with bad news.
Ahead of Saturday's final pre-World Cup friendly against co-host the United States and one week before Germany's Group E opener against Curacao, the Bayern striker suffered a serious muscle injury that will rule him out of the tournament.
"Can't tell you how much it hurts to take this," Karl said after having worked his way into the starting lineup.
The 18-year-old's setback is not Germany's only concern. Returning goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has yet to regain full form after a calf problem a few weeks ago. Neuer was reinstated as first choice in a late decision, but will miss the game against the United States and his start in the opening group match is uncertain.
While coach Julian Nagelsmann insisted things are progressing as planned for Neuer, Karl's loss came as an unpleasant surprise. Leipzig's Assan Ouedraogo is reportedly being called up as his replacement; the 20-year-old, who has one senior cap, received the call while on holiday in Spain.
Nagelsmann spoke of a "shock for us all," as Karl seemed a perfect fit for his "youthful nonchalance, his speed and unpredictable game."
Karl is said to return to Germany and rejoin his club for further treatment. "I can't find words to describe what it means to miss such a tournament," Karl said.
Nagelsmann demanded that the team focus on the upcoming tasks despite the setback. "Sadly enough, injuries can be part of football," he said. ■
