Said El Mala Transferred to German U21 Team: Insights from Coach Nagelsmann

Said El Mala’s transition from the German senior national team to the U21 squad has been officially confirmed. German national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann addressed the situation, clarifying the reasons for El Mala’s departure while his fellow 19-year-old, Assan Ouédraogo, remains with the senior team.

Ouédraogo was a late addition to the senior roster, whereas El Mala was included in Nagelsmann’s initial selection. The coach explained that El Mala’s move was primarily a “positional matter.” With Borussia Dortmund winger Karim Adeyemi returning from suspension after the previous World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg, Nagelsmann highlighted that both attacking flanks are now adequately covered.

Nagelsmann brought Ouédraogo into the squad to ensure there were additional players capable of performing as a No. 8.

While discussing El Mala’s performance, Nagelsmann emphasized that the player delivered satisfactory training sessions. He also echoed the sentiments of El Mala’s club coach, Lukas Kwasniok, stating, “He [El Mala] needs to work on the areas that Lukas Kwasniok pointed out to him. He needs to become an undisputed regular at his club. This was his first time with the senior team, and he exhibited a pleasant demeanor. He is both humble and assertive enough.”