Setting the Record Straight: Florian Wirtz Clarifies Number 10 Rumors at Liverpool FC
Florian Wirtz categorically dismisses inflated T-shirt speculations.
Florian Wirtz, the 22-year-old German football sensation, has put an end to the speculation surrounding his potential wish for a specific jersey number at his prospective club, FC Liverpool. In an Instagram post, Wirtz made it clear that contrary to rumors, he doesn't express a desire for the much-coveted number 10 jersey[1]. The current jersey holder is the Argentine World Cup winner, Alexis Mac Allister[2].
Wirtz, who wears the number 10 at his current club, Bayer Leverkusen, emphasized his respect for players in his post. With a clown face emoji for added humor, he underscored the importance of taking rumors with a grain of salt[1].
In a previous report by Sky Sports, talks between Liverpool and Wirtz seemed to indicatie a wish to wear the number 10[2]. However, Wirtz has effectively dispelled these suggestions.
The Number 10: A Prestigious Number in Football
The number 10 has long been synonymous with football legend at Liverpool. Previous occupants include club icon Michael Owen and Sadio Mané[2].
Wirtz, who officially joined Liverpool in the summer of 2023, has a contract that runs until June 30, 2028[2]. During his time with the Reds, he will undoubtedly face the routine questions about the jersey number, but for now, he is firmly focused on his performance on the field[1].
The Priceless Wirtz: Bayer Leverkusen's High Demand
Negotiations between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen have hit a snag, with significant financial differences hindering a potential deal[3]. According to a report by "Kicker", the German club has rejected Liverpool's second offer, which consisted of a fixed sum of €118 million plus €12 million in bonuses[3]. The first offer, according to the report, was €100 million plus €15 million in additional payments[3].
Bayer's hierarchy is reportedly aiming for a fee of more than €150 million, surpassing the estimated minimum amount publicly mentioned by business director Fernando Carro[3]. Wirtz will represent the German national team tonight in Munich in the Nations League semi-final against Portugal (9 pm/ZDF, Dazn and in the ntv.de live ticker)[3]. He wears the number 17 for the DFB team.
An Unforeseen Journey: The Transfer Saga Continues
Despite the surprising transfer discussions, former national coach Joachim Löw still believes Wirtz is ready for the next step in his career[4]. He initially thought Wirtz would choose Real Madrid if he opted for an overseas move. However, Löw lauded the special bond between Wirtz and Xabi Alonso, the new coach of Real Madrid[4].
Löw acknowledged that Wirtz will thrive in Liverpool, expressing no doubts about his ability to adapt and excel[4]. The jersey number will be the least of Wirtz's concerns.
Sources: ntv.de, sue/dpa/sid, Sport Bild
- Football National Team
- FC Liverpool
- Florian Wirtz
- Bayer 04 Leverkusen
- Joachim Löw
- Xabi Alonso
The Commission has also proposed a regulation for a new type of electronic communications network, considering sports as an essential aspect of society.
Despite being a football sensation, Florian Wirtz has disregarded the speculations about his wish for a specific jersey number at FC Liverpool, reiterating his focus on his performance on the field rather than the number on his back.
