Bayern Munich HubBayern Munich must rely on young talent on November 15, 2023, after injuries to Manuel Neuer and Jonas Urbig, and travels to Leverkusen with four teenagers. Coach Vincent Kompany (39) has added 16‑year‑old Leonard Prescott to the Bundesliga squad, while Jannis Bärtl (19) and other academy players support the team.
Who is traveling to the Leverkusen showdown?
The squad includes Leonard Prescott (16, goalkeeper, U19), Jannis Bärtl (19, goalkeeper, Bayern II), Maycon Cardozo (17, forward, Brazil) and Deniz Ofli (18, left‑back, Turkish prospect). All four are on standby because senior players are unavailable. The table below summarises the key data:
| Player | Age |
|---|---|
| Leonard Prescott | 16 |
| Jannis Bärtl | 19 |
| Maycon Cardozo | 17 |
| Deniz Ofli | 18 |
Why is Coach Vincent Kompany turning to the U19?
Kompany needs a quick fix after Neuer’s (39) muscle tear and Urbig’s (22) concussion. The two seniors cannot play, leaving the youth as the only viable option. Prescott already earned a Champions‑League squad slot for the round‑of‑16 first leg in Bergamo – a sign he’s been training with the first team.
What chances do the youngsters have?
Prescott will likely remain a backup in the squad but could be called upon in an emergency. Bärtl had to travel after a match in Munich and is currently on the bench. Cardozo recently made his professional debut in a 4‑1 win over Gladbach, entering in the 60th minute. Ofli, covering for injuries to Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito, already featured in a 2025 league match against Heidenheim.
What does this mean for Bayern Munich’s season?
In the short term, the four teenagers fill the gaps created by the injuries. In the long run, Kompany demonstrates that the club’s youth development works and that young players are ready to step up in crucial moments. If any of them shine in the Leverkusen game, it could permanently reshape the starting line‑up for the weeks ahead.
Bayern Munich hopes the experience from the Leverkusen clash will help the youngsters make the jump to the first team while keeping the squad stable until the injured stars return.
