Said El Mala is thrilling 1. FC Köln. He was even invited to join the senior national team – but it was short-lived.

Julian Nagelsmann caused a stir with the nomination of Said El Mala. Just over a week ago, the national coach called up the 19-year-old shooting star from 1. FC Köln to the national team.

In the Bundesliga, El Mala has mainly come off the bench so far. In ten games, he has scored four goals and provided two assists. He did not play for the DFB team in the 2-0 win against Luxembourg. According to the “Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger,” he will not be playing in the home game against Slovakia on Monday, November 17, at 8:45 p.m. El Mala has been removed from the squad.

Update: The DFB has now confirmed this decision.

Background: On Tuesday, November 18, at 6 p.m., the German U21 team will face Georgia – and El Mala is expected to help. That is why he is to leave the senior national team.

There are many impressions to process within just a few days. National team player Jonathan Tah sees dangers for younger players such as national team newcomers Said El Mala and Assan Ouédraogo, particularly with regard to social media. It is important “to simply protect them and teach them a little bit to stay true to themselves,” Tah said. The 29-year-old explained that young players should not focus too much on “what is being said about them on the outside. Because if you focus too much on the hype, then in difficult moments you also focus on what is coming from the outside and that pulls you down again.” Tah added: “It’s important to have a good environment, a stable environment, and just stay true to yourself.”

That’s what the experienced center back said ahead of the Luxembourg game. Tah was even supposed to wear the captain’s armband for that game. Background: Joshua Kimmich was injured at short notice. Kimmich, who plays right back for the national team, could return against Slovakia—unlike Said El Mala.