Said El Mala, Lennart Karl, Julian Nagelsmann
19 May 2026
Said El Mala and Lennart Karl are reportedly set to make Germany’s World Cup squad despite limited senior international experience. Julian Nagelsmann has informed El Mala of his inclusion before the official squad announcement.
El Mala forced his way into contention with a strong Bundesliga finish for Cologne, while Karl had already impressed Nagelsmann. The decision marks a major turnaround after El Mala was previously criticised for limited playing time and defensive work.