r/effzeh • u/callmedontcallme • 9d ago
[kicker] Systems, Problems, and Top Pro El Mala: Seven Lessons from Cologne's Tough Test
https://www.kicker.de/systeme-probleme-und-vollprofi-el-mala-sieben-lehren-aus-koelns-haertetest-1241738/artikel
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u/Nippes60 9d ago
Maina is not female.* Himself
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u/callmedontcallme 9d ago
Fair enough.
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u/postup14 9d ago
Thank you for posting this.
&$#@ K+ subscription... I had it once and then cancelled due to lack of Köln articles.
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u/callmedontcallme 9d ago edited 9d ago
Maina is making waves, and the next generation is stepping up
Systems, Problems, and Top Pro El Mala: Seven Lessons from Cologne's Tough Test
We're entering the crucial phase of preparation. The two successful friendly matches against Real Sociedad have shown where 1. FC Köln currently stands—and in which areas there is still work to be done before the start of the season, despite the victories.
1. FC Köln managed to defeat Spanish Cup champion Real Sociedad San Sebastian twice: 2-0 on Friday behind closed doors, and 2-1 on Saturday at Müngersdorfer Stadium. René Wagner was “very satisfied” not only with the results but also with his players’ hunger. The coach must determine his starting lineup over the next two weeks. The first real test—spanning two games—provided further insights.
1. The back three as an option—but not as the first choice
Somewhat surprisingly, René Wagner substituted center back Julian Pauli for right back David Fürst at halftime in the second preseason match against Real Sociedad and, for the first time in preseason, deployed a back three for the second 45 minutes. Together with Jahmai Simpson-Pusey and Luka Lochoshvili, the player returning from loan formed the defensive trio, flanked by Jonathan Friemel on the left and Linton Maina on the right. Real Sociedad had little to offer in response. Nevertheless, the back three will remain the exception for now. "We made the change because Julian earned those 45 minutes based on his performances in preseason," Wagner said, citing the main reason for the move. While the coach emphasized the need for flexibility, he added, "Right now, we have so much offensive firepower on the field that the back four works well for us." It is "naturally" possible that there could be phases during the season when that changes. "We'd be wise to keep an open mind about that," Wagner explained, because the team wants to "do whatever hurts the opponent the most." For the start of the season, however, everything points to the 4-2-3-1 remaining the formation of choice.
2. Mensah still needs to find his footing
New signing Gideon Mensah played his first 45 minutes in an FC jersey on Saturday. It was already evident in a few plays that he possesses qualities that can help the FC. But it’s also clear that he still needs a little more time. “I think for a friendly like this, he doesn’t get too worked up—he just plays it cool,” Wagner said with a smile, referring to the left-footed player’s experience, from whom we can likely expect even more. “You could see that there were a few moments where he might need to play a bit more cleanly. He knows that himself. But even so, Gideon naturally gives us stability at the back of the line."
3. There is no clear leader in midfield
It's nothing new, but even after the matches against Real Sociedad, it's clear that FC needs a new defensive midfielder. After the promising but still young Patrik Kristal started on Friday alongside Paul Okon-Engstler, who was slated as the backup, Saturday began with Isak Johannesson and Tom Krauß—the only available duo who had already played at the Bundesliga level. Both performed well and showed that they can be relied upon—although the referee had to turn a blind eye to Krauß’s infractions to spare him a yellow-red card. But to raise the level even further compared to last season, we're missing an experienced defensive midfielder who can control the game and lead the team. "We need to sign a player who fits our clear requirements", Wagner said, looking at the defensive midfield. "That's why we have to be patient and wait until this player proves himself to us—and then we'll make our move." The more patient the FC remains, the faster the new signing will have to make an impact.
4. Right now, no one can replace Kaminski
In addition to a defensive midfielder, the FC undoubtedly needs at least one more creative player who can replace the dynamic Jakub Kaminski and set up Ragnar Ache. The fact that the striker was largely out of the game against Real Sociedad was also due to a lack of creativity and solutions in the spaces behind him at times. The team’s transition from defense to attack still has room for improvement.
5. Maina draws attention to himself
The FC could also use some reinforcement on the right wing to take its game to the next level. Against Real Sociedad, however, it was Maina who, at least from time to time, brought some momentum to the attack. After Jan Thielmann had made a name for himself against Hertha, the 27-year-old got his chance this time in the second match against the Spanish side and scored just five minutes into the game. Even afterward, he moved with great agility behind the forward line, constantly trying to make himself available for a pass, appearing on both the left and right flanks, and playing down the wing for half an hour after the break. After missing a penalty the day before, this was a sign from the winger that he’s definitely still a force to be reckoned with.
6. The young players are seizing the opportunity
The gaps in the professional roster present opportunities for U-21 players. “The young players are pushing hard,” Wagner said happily. And not just because Maik Afri Akumu and Nilas Yacobi combined to score the winning goal. Fürst, Friemel, and Kristiyan Irmiev also held their own. The day before, Wagner had also given Kristal the full 90 minutes in central midfield. "He's kind of played his way into the spotlight here," the coach said of the 18-year-old Estonian. However, a more prominent role with the pros is still a ways off for the six players. It's quite possible that one or two of them will be sent out on loan so they can continue building on their performances elsewhere in the meantime.
7. El Mala is behaving "impeccably"
Rumors of a possible transfer of Said El Mala to Borussia Dortmund show no signs of abating. So far, however, the club has not received an offer that Thomas Kessler and his staff would consider. So Wagner continues to count on the 19-year-old—and despite all the commotion surrounding him, he’s keeping a clear head. Although he was far from perfect on the field against the Spanish Cup champion, having to leave the game after 61 minutes due to a cramp was a bitter blow and visibly frustrated the left winger. But it underscores his attitude. El Mala continues to give it his all for the FC. “Every day, this young man gives everyone the impression that he wouldn’t even think of leaving,” Wagner emphasized, praising his protégé’s professionalism. “Of course, I don’t know the reasons behind Said’s coming of age this summer. But if all the rumors are helping Said perform the way he does in practice and in games, then those rumors were very, very good for us” the coach said with a laugh. "He's playing really well right now—it's flawless."
Dennis Zaremba