Köln prodigy Said El Mala breaks silence on growing interest from top clubs

Having made his breakthrough for 1. FC Köln this season, 19-year-old Said El Mala has attracted attention from numerous top clubs across Europe.

However, El Mala made it clear to reporters on Wednesday that he wants to stay at Köln at least through the rest of the season.

When asked whether he plans to remain at the club beyond the winter transfer window, the young attacker responded with a firm “yes,” while also acknowledging the interest in him:

“When you’re a young player and have a few goals or assists in the Bundesliga, I think it’s normal that several clubs take notice. I’m aware of it, but it doesn’t affect me."

El Mala added that, while he is currently focusing “fully on Köln,” he shares the ambitions of most young players aiming high in their careers:

“Everyone wants to play in the Champions League. Everyone wants to play for the biggest clubs. That’s what every footballer works towards,” he said.

The youngster scored his fifth goal of the season last week in Köln’s 1-1 draw with Werder Bremen.