Lennart Karl sparks controversy with provocative "blah-blah" celebration in Bayern's win over Atletico

Bouncing back from recent criticism, Lennart Karl scored the opening goal in Bayern Munich's 2-0 victory over Atletico Madrid and celebrated his goal in controversial fashion.

Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Following Bayern Munich's 2-0 victory over Atletico Madrid, Lennart Karl was once again one of the main talking points at the German club.

Not only did the 18-year-old score the opening goal in Bayern's victory, but he also celebrated in controversial fashion, leaving plenty of room for interpretation as he raised both hands towards his ears and mimicked talking with his fingers.

It seems fair to assume that Karl's so-called “blah-blah” gesture was aimed at his critics. But was he also taking aim at Bayern supervisory board chairman Uli Hoeneß, who recently called on the youngster to show more humility, and board member for sport Max Eberl, who had pointed to a recent “dip in form and one or two missteps”?

Speaking to the media after the game, Eberl claimed he had “honestly not seen Karl's celebration at all”.

"I was celebrating too, and when that happens, I don't look at what the others are doing. I'm happy for him that we scored the goal," the Bayern chief explained, according to t-online.

He added that Karl is “an important player” for Bayern and that the club's hierarchy “have never questioned that”.

Midfielder Tom Bischof smiled and admitted he did not know what the celebration meant, while captain Manuel Neuer also avoided getting drawn into the controversy.

"There's nothing to discuss and nothing to make an issue out of," Neuer insisted.

Bayern assistant coach Aaron Danks, who was once again in charge in Vincent Kompany's absence, also shared his thoughts on Karl's situation and celebration.

“There's been a lot of noise around Lenny recently," Danks said, as quoted by iMiaSanMia.

"As a young player, I think he showed great character and great mental strength. He has a good belief in himself. And his performance today was great, capped off with a really good goal. I thought he finished it excellent, lifting it over the goalkeeper. 

“I haven't seen the celebration. We're really pleased for Lenny, pleased for the group, and pleased with the team's performance tonight.”