Cologne’s Thomas Kessler on Saïd El Mala’s Dortmund deal collapse

Nineteen‑year‑old Saïd El Mala’s prospective move to Borussia Dortmund collapsed last week, yet Cologne sporting director Thomas Kessler insists the midfielder shows no disappointment. The 40‑year‑old Kessler highlighted the respectful talks between the clubs and affirmed El Mala’s pride in staying with the Billy Goats.

Failed Dortmund move

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken confirmed that negotiations took place, but without an agreement the club will no longer pursue the 19‑year‑old. The talks involved two Bundesliga sides, yet the outcome was a mutual decision to walk away.

Kessler explained, “It had been clear for several days that we weren’t going to reach an agreement,” adding that the result “didn’t come out of the blue for us” and was simply the product of “very respectful discussions between the two clubs.”

He also noted, “It’s perfectly understandable that a player of his age would consider a move to a Champions League club.” The director emphasized the player’s ambition while underscoring the club’s commitment to his development.

“I don’t see any disappointment in him. I’m in touch with Saïd almost every day, and we speak very openly about the situation,” Kessler said, praising the way El Mala conducts himself and wears the Cologne shirt.

Staying with the Billy Goats

The Billy Goats’ first competitive outing of 2026/27 is an away DFB Cup first‑round tie against third‑division Würzburger Kickers on Monday 24 August, and Kessler sees no reason why the talisman would miss it. “I can only repeat what I’ve been saying for weeks: I’m convinced he’ll be playing for Cologne this season,” he affirmed.

Kessler added that continued strong performances will naturally attract interest, stating, “Players who develop well here will naturally attract interest from other clubs. This certainly won’t be the last time in our lives that we’ve sat around a negotiating table with Borussia Dortmund.”

The image credit reads © Christof Koepsel and the tag KoepselbundesligaCologne accompanies the story.