1. FC Köln have signed attackers Malek (19) and Said (17) El Mala. The brothers will join from Viktoria Köln and have both signed long-term contracts with FC. In the 2024-25 season, the pair will return to Viktoria on loan and play in the 3. Liga.
FC Managing Director, Christian Keller said: “Both Said and Malek developed really well in the past season. In Viktoria’s under-19s, they put in great performances and taken their first steps in professional football in the 3. Liga. Both lads have a lot of very good aspects to their game to continue on their path and establish themselves in first-team football. The chance to play regularly in a familiar environment at a high level in the 3. Liga at Viktoria will do them good. We will follow Said and Malek closely on their loan and are looking forward to seeing both in FC kits after the loan.”
Malek El Mala said: “I am really looking forward to the new challenge at 1. FC Köln. It is a big milestone that I’ve reached with my brother and we will give everything for the club. The fact that we are going to continue our journey at FC is something very special. It’s what we’ve always worked towards and we’re very proud of that.”
Said El Mala said: “It is an incredibly good feeling to be able to join such a big club. And just as my brother said. It can’t be taken for granted that we are able to take this step together. We are very thankful for that. We will give everything in the coming season and want to prepare ourselves as well as possible for the time at FC.”
Malek El Mala was born on 2nd April 2005. Up until his move to Köln, he was a centre-back. He then switched position and scored 10 goals in 22 games for Viktoria’s under-19s, also tallying seven assists. The Germany under-19 international made his 3. Liga debut this year on 27th April against Preußen Münster.
Said El Mala was born on 26th August 2006. The attacking midfielder also performed well for Viktoria’s under-19s, scoring 11 goals and setting up a further six in 19 games. After his 3. Liga debut on 21st February 2024, the Germany under-18 international scored his first senior goal against VfB Lübeck on Matchday 31.
