"Too soon": Expert warns El Mala against Bayern move | OneFootball

Said El Mala has made a name for himself at 1. FC Köln in no time – and has long since attracted the interest of top clubs. Bayern Munich in particular are said to be keeping a close eye on the U21 international. But TV legend Marcel Reif urges caution and advises the youngster against an early move.

With his strong performances in a 1. FC Köln shirt, Said El Mala has taken the Bundesliga by storm. The 19-year-old is one of the biggest talents in German football and is on the shortlist of several top clubs – including Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

According to BILD, Bayern’s chief scout Nils Schmadtke has already reached out to the decision-makers in Cologne. He is said to have made it clear that the record champions would enter the race for El Mala should a transfer become likely. However, the attacking player is under a long-term contract with the Billy Goats until 2030 – and does not have a release clause.

Reif: “A move would be too soon”

Photo: IMAGO | Photo: IMAGO,

Despite interest from the big clubs, Marcel Reif advises the shooting star to stay in Cologne for now. In his BILD show Reif ist live, the longtime commentator explained: “A transfer in the winter or after the current season would be too soon. You shouldn’t burden the boy with even more than he’s already expected to deliver. The boy should provide 1. FC Köln with the creative sparkle and keep the club in the top flight.”

Reif praised the talent’s development but also warned of the typical risks of rising too quickly: “I believe the decision-makers have learned from recent years. Hopefully the boy also has a good advisor. Lads at that age need to play – otherwise the talent comes to nothing.”

The competition at Bayern in particular is enormous. Young players like Jan-Fiete Arp or Michaël Cuisance took the step to Munich in the past but were unable to establish themselves.

“So many question marks” – Reif on Bayern’s interest

For Reif, there’s no doubt that Bayern have El Mala seriously on their radar: “We can assume that. But do you have the guarantee that you’ll play right away at Bayern? There are so many question marks.”

According to media reports, Cologne would demand a transfer fee of at least 40 million euros for their jewel – a price that underscores the esteem for the U21 international. Nevertheless, Reif still sees the ideal place for the youngster’s development at 1. FC Köln: “It’s great that we have him in the league. He’s stepping into the Bundesliga spotlight – and the lions are already lurking.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.