Bavaria on alert: Cologne prodigy El Mala inspires Kompany!
FC Cologne will face Bayern Munich in the cup on October 28, 2025, while talent Said El Mala is in focus.

Bavaria on alert: Cologne prodigy El Mala inspires Kompany!
An exciting duel awaits when 1. FC Cologne meets Bayern Munich in the DFB Cup on Wednesday evening at 8:45 p.m. on ARD. The Billy Goats enter the game with a lot of enthusiasm, especially thanks to their talented newcomer Said El Mala, who has proven to be one of the most dangerous players this season. The 19-year-old has already scored three goals in just eight league appearances and is causing a stir in the football world. Not only does coach Lukas Kwasniok see him as having the potential to guarantee a starting XI against Bayern, top European clubs such as Paris Saint Germain, Inter Milan and Manchester City are also keeping an eye on El Mala. Even Bayern Munich is said to be interested in the talented striker Picture reported.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany has already praised El Mala. He described its acceleration and shooting power as an important asset for Cologne's counterattacks. Kompany sees El Mala as a serious threat and emphasizes the importance of a stable defensive performance from his own team. Bayern, as an away team, are warned and ready to face this challenge, as Cologne's wild attacks could put many teams in trouble, like OneFootball describes.
The strengths of Said El Mala
Said El Mala's skills make him an outstanding player on the pitch. Kompany emphasizes the urgency and efficiency of his shots, which are dangerous even at high speeds. Not only that, El Mala has already proven this season that he is crucial for Cologne's counterattacks. This is also reflected in his comparatively strong performance in the last game against Dortmund, despite the narrow 0-1 defeat in which he missed a great chance.
Coach Lukas Kwasniok wants El Mala to retain his advantages, and his achievements have not gone unnoticed, because with his contract until 2030, FC Köln has a precious pearl in its ranks. However, a change in the upcoming winter does not seem to be planned; Discussions about a possible transfer could not take place until next summer at the earliest.
A look at the competition
While the Cologne decision-makers are already working on the future of El Mala, Bayern are taking a critical look at their defensive strategy. Kompany highlights the strength of the central block to stop FC Köln's dangerous counterattacks, which can be efficient even against top-class teams like Bayern.
At a time when Cologne talent is in high demand, El Mala could soon be one of the most sought-after players on the European market. His performance against Bayern Munich could be crucial not only for the club but also for his personal career.