Uzbek footballer; versatile defender at the top level
El Mala has extended his contract with Cologne to 2031, retaining the No. 10 jersey amid transfer talk. He confirmed his commitment, saying he aims to build on last season’s 13 goals and five assists as the club hopes to fend off interest from Dortmund and others.
Nicolas Jackson scores twice to seal Aston Villa’s 3-1 win over Manchester City at Villa Park, ending City’s seven-game winning start. Gianluigi Donnarumma has a difficult afternoon at the back, with Villa’s finishing proving decisive. Emery’s side shows resilience after summer upheaval, while City face questions over defensive robustness heading into a packed fixture list.
Nicolas Jackson scores a brace to lift Aston Villa to a 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Villa Park. City suffer their first league loss of the season as Villa extend a strong run, with Jackson continuing to justify his hefty transfer fee amid a stuttering City defence.
Manchester City's defensive lapses have contributed to a costly run of results, with goals conceded in recent matches exposing systemic vulnerabilities. The issue spans multiple games and opponents, prompting questions about structure and leadership. The coming fixtures will test whether the unit can recover.