Cologne 2026/27 season preview: Will the Said El Mala factor make the difference?
The appointment of René Wagner as head coach in the second half of the season helped Cologne narrowly avoid relegation last term. But after a feel-good summer in which star winger Said El Mala signed a new contract at the club, much more is expected of the Billy Goats heading into 2026/2027.
Cologne
2025/26 finish: 14th
Pre-season results: 5-0 win vs. Rheinsud Köln, 8-0 win vs. Bergisch Gladbach, 2-2 draw vs. Hertha Berlin, 2-1 win vs. Real Sociedad
First three fixtures: Hoffenheim (H), Stuttgart (A), Werder Bremen (H)
What to expect?
First and foremost, Cologne will want to avoid a repeat of last season's nervy end to the season, in which a poor run of form saw them get sucked back into a relegation battle. The loss of Jakub Kamiński and Eric Martel - two of their most consistent performers - won't exactly help in this regard. However, sporting director Thomas Kessler has used the funds generated from their exits to add some much-needed squad depth over the summer.
Watch: Gil Neves under the spotlight
After a somewhat topsy-turvy few years - including memorable European runs and relegation to the second tier - the Billy Goats are hoping to push on in the Bundesliga under coach Wagner. The focus will likely be on El Mala, who is set to remain at Cologne this season.
Key new signing: Reigan Heskey
With the signing of Heskey, Cologne have added another highly sought-after youngster to their ranks. The 18-year-old is considered a tremendous attacking talent, having emerged from Manchester City's esteemed youth academy. His goal record has been especially notable in recent years, as he notched nine in 15 UEFA Youth League matches last season. Even with El Mala's continued presence at the club, the young Englishman is likely to see some playing time.
"I was really keen to join Cologne to take the next step in my career," said Heskey after making the move to the Rhineland. "My discussions with those in charge have shown me that my style of play is a very good fit for the club. I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing in the Bundesliga and want to make the most of this opportunity to prove myself here."
>>> See all of Cologne's comings and goings here!
Key player: Said El Mala
El Mala is Cologne's great hope for the new season after a sensational breakout Bundesliga campaign. Despite being new to top-flight football, the Krefeld-born winger was a revelation last term, scoring 13 goals in 34 league matches.
With the famous number 10 on his back, previously worn by the legendary Lukas Podolski, we could be in for an electrifying campaign from El Mala. His searing pace and penchant for the spectacular lit up the RheinEnergieSTADION last season, and he'll be expected to deliver more magical moments in 2026/27.
Watch: The best of Saïd El Mala in 2025/26
Talking point
Wagner is no longer a newcomer in the dugout, having already served as Cologne head coach at the end of the 2025/26 campaign following the dismissal of Lukas Kwasniok. Nevertheless, this is his first opportunity to show what he can do with a full pre-season under his belt.
"We always want to have the best possible team on the pitch and play the best possible system that can hurt the opponent. That's how we work," explained Wagner, whose side take on Hoffenheim on the opening weekend.
>>> Follow Cologne's opener against Hoffenheim here!
