It will happen eventually: El Mala drops a transfer hint

It will happen eventually: El Mala drops a transfer hint Despite receiving numerous offers last summer, 20-year-old Said El Mala decided to stay at 1. FC Köln and sign a long-term contract extension until 2031. Now the Germany international has explained the reasons behind his decision. Speaking to RTL and Sky, the forward reflected on the transfer window: “I chose Köln because I simply felt at home here. I didn’t want to leave, even though there were a lot of inquiries.” He made no secret in the interview of having considered offers from other clubs: “Of course, we listened to everything. That’s completely normal.” Ultimately, however, the club’s sporting prospects tipped the balance in favor of staying. Speaking to the two TV broadcasters, El Mala explained: “But I spoke a lot with the board and the coach and listened to their plans for the team. Looking at things now, those plans have been put into practice exactly as discussed. I want to make the city and the club happy through my performances and those of the team.” There was certainly no shortage of high-profile suitors in the summer. Among them, English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion sounded out a move for the youngster. Borussia Dortmund were also reportedly prepared to put a transfer fee of around €50 million on the table, but Köln’s management felt that was too little. Given his potential, keeping the forward at Köln for the long term is considered unlikely. Asked about his future career ambitions by RTL and Sky, the 20-year-old made an eye-catching statement: “There are always dreams. I want to achieve a lot one day and play in the Champions League too. I can’t say when that moment will come. But it will happen someday.” This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.