1. FC Köln have taken four points from their first five competitive matches under René Wagner. The return has left the club’s early-season level hard to judge.
The sporting fact
Uncertainty around results has raised tension in Cologne during the international break. Wagner, 38, has become the focus of the debate, although the wider issue concerns the club’s direction and identity.
The question is what kind of club Köln want to be this season. Results have not yet provided a clear answer.
There was one positive international development. Winger Said El Mala has received a call-up to the national team.
Former Köln coach Friedhelm Funkel has also publicly backed Wagner.
