German Shooting Star El Mala Makes Future Decision

Said El Mala was considered one of the most sought-after footballers this transfer summer.

Initially, several English clubs were said to have vied for the 19-year-old, before Borussia Dortmund reportedly even submitted a record offer. However, his club, 1. FC Köln, rejected all offers.

Now comes a complete turnaround. Instead of moving, the attacking player extends his contract in Cologne for another year until 2031. However, there will still be a change: in the future, El Mala will wear the number 10 jersey.

"Something Very Special"

About his decision, the shooting star of the "Billy Goats" says: "Since I've been here, FC has given me a good feeling every day. That's why I enjoy coming to Geißbockheim every day; it's incredibly fun to work with the boys and the coaching team, and I've learned a lot. My first Bundesliga season here was something very special."

"Of course, I thought about my future afterwards. But the discussions with the officials at FC, with René (Wagner, coach) and with Thomas (Kessler, managing director), were excellent. I feel enormous trust and great appreciation here. That's why I'm staying – I want to play a good season with FC and our fans, and I will give everything for that, also because I know what it means to play with the number 10 for FC," said El Mala.