Why was Said El Mala left out? Karl's withdrawal and Nagelsmann's choices

Lennart Karl’s withdrawal from the World Cup is a bitter blow for the squad and for the 18-year-old himself. “It just hurts beyond words,” Karl posted on Instagram. His fearless, audacious style—often baffling at first glance yet unexpectedly effective—will be missed both on the pitch and as a link between tactics and supporters.

Many supporters wanted to see Said El Mala in the squad. Cologne fans and those who prize pace, skill and flair have questioned his omission, and some wonder what he did to fall out of favour. Still, Julian Nagelsmann’s decision to leave El Mala out of the Luxembourg qualifier and the subsequent squad was predictable, and the manager almost certainly has sporting reasons for his choices.

Objectively, the DFB squad contains three goalkeepers—with the designated No. 1 carrying an injury—five centre‑backs, two left‑backs, eight central midfielders, two playmakers, two right‑wingers and four centre‑forwards.

Germany, Cologne

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