Arsenal loanee Karl Hein delivered an impressive performance during his Bundesliga debut for Werder Bremen against Bayern Munich on Friday night.
The 23-year-old signed for the German outfit on loan last summer. He started the Bundesliga campaign as a backup goalkeeper behind Mio Backhaus.
Backhaus recently sustained a shoulder injury in training, which paved the way for Hein to make his league debut for Werder against the German champions.
Bayern went on to win 4-0 at the Allianz Arena last night, but Hein was exceptional between the sticks.
Werder conceded their first goal in the 22nd minute after some fantastic reflex saves from Hein. Without him, the margin of defeat could have been more embarrassing.
The Estonia international ended up making eight saves with 0.43 xG for goals prevented. He also completed 38 out of 52 passes attempted with seven long balls.
Hein brought his inner Manuel Neuer to the Allianz Arena. He acted as a sweeper-keeper when required and also won a couple of ground and aerial duels on the night.
Arsenal loaned out Hein to Werder after signing Kepa Arrizabalaga as David Raya’s deputy. Hein’s current deal expires in June next year, but there is an option for another 12 months.
Hein has been building his reputation as a quality ball-playing goalkeeper. He was also brilliant against Italy in a World Cup qualifier. The Azzurri did not score until the 58th minute.
The young shot-stopper has sent a message to manager Mikel Arteta with his stand-out displays for club and country this season.
If the 23-year-old can keep up this form, he will improve his prospects of becoming the second-choice goalkeeper behind Raya or even replacing him in the long term.
Hein is set for an extended run as Werder’s league goalkeeper with Backhaus expected to be sidelined for a while after his untimely shoulder injury.
Stats from Sofascore.com
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