Nagelsmann explains decision to send Said El Mala to Germany U21s

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has explained why Said El Mala left the senior squad’s training camp to join the U21s instead.

On Saturday, it was announced that 1. FC Köln youngster Said El Mala had left the senior German national team camp to join the U21s ahead of their match against Georgia on Tuesday.

At a press conference on Sunday, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann underlined that El Mala’s performances in training were not the reason for the change. 

“He made a good impression. I have very close communication with [Germany U21 coach] Toni Di Salvo. He is happy for his players when they can showcase themselves with the senior national team. But for his mission, it’s not ideal,” Nagelsmann said.

He added that, at 19, there are naturally still areas where El Mala can develop.

“Said did well. You always have to put things into perspective, because it was his first time with us and he didn’t have much training time here. He is humble and cheeky enough at the same time. 

“He needs to become a regular starter in Köln and have the ambition to address the areas for improvement that his club coach and I have pointed out. Then he will also have the opportunity to make an impact with the national team,” Nagelsmann concluded.