Köln’s sporting director, coach and captain praise Dortmund-linked El Mala

Köln’s sporting director Thomas Kessler, head coach René Wagner and captain Marvin Schwaebe spoke about Said El Mala’s transfer saga as the 19-year-old continues to be linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund.

According to Sport BILD, BVB have no intention to meet Köln’s €50 million asking price. However, with the player keen on the move, there is a big probability that the topic will be dragged until the final week of the transfer window.

“How the boy behaves, how he trains and plays is so fantastic,” said Kessler in an interview with BILD. “It’s so fun to work with him. He laughs all day and feels comfortable here. I don't know if everyone would deal with a situation like that."

The coach also shared the sentiment of the former Köln goalkeeper. "We must not worry about things that we cannot influence,” said the 38-year-old after reflecting on what he saw from El Mala in training sessions and pre-season games.

“You don't do him any favors with transfer talks every day,” Schwäbe saw things from another perspective. “That does not make it any easier for him as a 19-year-old boy. We didn't feel like he said goodbye at the end of the season. But we all know how fast it can go in our sport. It's nice that he's here and of course we hope he stays with his quality.”