El Mala and Thijs Dallinga are major doubts for 1. FC Köln's upcoming Bundesliga away match at VfB Stuttgart following their heroics last weekend. Head coach René Wagner revealed on Wednesday that both players missed training due to illness, casting uncertainty over their availability for Friday's fixture, as reported by sports.yahoo.com.
The two forwards were the match-winners in the 3-2 home victory over TSG Hoffenheim. El Mala opened the scoring for the Billy Goats, while substitute Thijs Dallinga sealed the important three points with a late brace. Potentially losing these two goal scorers is a significant blow to Köln's attacking plans.
How serious is the illness?
René Wagner was cautious in his prognosis during Wednesday's press conference. "With both of them, it looks like it could be a close call", the Köln manager said. He stressed the need to take things day by day. "We'll have to see tomorrow", Wagner added. A final decision on their participation is likely to be made close to kick-off at the Mercedes-Benz Arena. The team travels to Stuttgart with this uncertainty looming.
What does this mean for the lineup?
For Wagner, the possible absence of two key attackers presents a tactical puzzle. If El Mala and Dallinga are not fit, the coach must turn to alternatives from within the squad. The current injury situation and squad depth can be checked on our squad page. The team faces a demanding schedule, with a home match against Werder Bremen awaiting on September 12, 2026, after the Stuttgart trip.
What are the implications for the Stuttgart match?
The match at the Mercedes-Benz Arena is scheduled for Friday at 20:30 CEST. VfB Stuttgart has traditionally been a difficult away fixture for 1. FC Köln. Losing two of their most potent goal threats would significantly weaken the visitors' offensive efforts. Köln would need to find other ways to break down Stuttgart's defense. The current league standings and the importance of points for both sides are detailed in the standings.
Preparation for the game is now marked by considerable uncertainty for René Wagner's team. The club's medical staff is working hard to get both players ready in time. If they are unsuccessful, Wagner will have to devise a creative solution for his starting eleven. FC Köln's next competitive fixture after the international break is the home game against Werder Bremen at the RheinEnergieSTADION.
