1. FC Köln faces injury concerns and potential transfer activity

1. FC Köln faces squad challenges as winger Said El Mala is likely to miss the upcoming away match against VfB Stuttgart due to muscular problems. His former coach, Olaf Janßen, noted that El Mala has previously struggled with physical conditioning and fitness levels, suggesting the player needs to bridge a gap in his physical development to reach his full potential.

Additionally, midfielder Emin Kujovic is a potential transfer target for the Hungarian club Zalaegerszegi TE. The 21-year-old, who is currently under contract with Köln's reserve team until 2028, could move to the Hungarian side for a fee estimated around €300,000. Kujovic, who has represented Bosnia and Herzegovina at the U21 level, has also drawn interest from Austria's Wolfsberger AC.