Unleashing the Reds' Power: Florian Wirtz on Why He's Switching Sides for FC Liverpool
Florian Wirtz shares his reasons for transferring to Liverpool Football Club.
Up for some rousing drama? The thrilling high-stakes chase is over, and pen has been put to paper: Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz is leaving the familiar grounds to join the illustrious Anfield Road, teaming up with FC Liverpool. In a candid tête-à-tête, the sought-after prodigy unfolds his reasons for this life-changing move.
Florian Wirtz, donning his brand-new Liverpool jersey, radiates joy, grateful that his record-breaking transfer to the Reds is finally sealed. "I'm delighted and feel genuinely proud. This moment I've been eagerly anticipating has finally come knocking," he beamed, making his intentions clear: "I'm not here to just enjoy the ride - I want to make an impact and repay the faithful fans who back us."
So, why FC Liverpool, the club famously headed by Jurgen Klopp in the past? Wirtz illuminates the decision-making process. "I wanted a shot at one of the top-tier clubs worldwide, and in my humble opinion, Liverpool fits that bill," he emphasized, landing a subtle jab at FC Bayern, who also nurtured dreams of securing the young maestro's services. He believes now is the perfect juncture in his career to stride ahead, and Liverpool offers the best platform for growth. The exact duration of his contract with the Reds remains undisclosed, though media reports suggest it's a five-year deal.
Whispers of a 150 Million Euro Transfer Fee
Both clubs have chosen to keep mum about the transfer fee, but gossip mills suggest it might soar as high as 150 million euros, including loyalty incentives. This renders Wirtz the costliest German footballer to date. Reports further indicate that he will join Liverpool's marquee players, with the team, led by coach Arne Slot, purportedly offering him an annual salary of around 20 million euros.
The bittersweet departure of Florian Wirtz isn't losing on Bayer Leverkusen's sport director, Simon Rolfes. "It's touched me deeply, making waves throughout our entire organization and, personally, too," he confessed. "He started his journey with us as a 16-year-old and made genuine connections with many folks at the club over the years."
Wirtz, however, stated that Leverkusen will always hold a special place in his heart, despite the announcement of his departure breaking the air of secrecy. Leverkusen, unfortunately, must bid farewell to not just their prized player but also to their esteemed coach Xabi Alonso, who's joining Real Madrid, and defensive ace Jonathan Tah, bound for FC Bayern Munich. "It's never easy to part ways following five-and-a-half incredible years," Wirtz acknowledged in a Bayer statement: "It's been an honor to serve you. I eagerly await another sporting reunion."
"I'm Here to Win Everything"
With a plane ticket booked for England, Wirtz journeyed to England for mandatory medical tests on Thursday, successfully completing them by Friday. Prior to Liverpool emerging as his preferred destination, FC Bayern was considered the clear frontrunner for the young star. However, the record champions faced a cold shoulder.
Up to this point, Wirtz has played 140 Bundesliga games, netting 35 goals. He's logged 31 appearances for the German national team, scoring seven times. As Leverkusen bids a reluctant goodbye, the Bundesliga must also wave goodbye to one of its most captivating players. And in his first official address, Wirtz left no shadows of doubt about his Liverpool ambitions: "I want to win everything, every year. But first, we've got to roll up our sleeves and do our homework. I've got my work cut out for me."
Source: ntv.de, tno/dpa
- Florian Wirtz
- FC Liverpool
- FC Bayern Munich
- Bayer 04 Leverkusen
- Football
- Premier League
Enrichment Data:
Florian Wirtz chose FC Liverpool over FC Bayern Munich primarily because he craved a fresh adventure beyond the Bundesliga and was enticed by the prospect of playing in the Premier League. Excited about the journey ahead, he mentioned that his conversations with players who had experienced the Premier League firsthand convinced him it was the ideal suitor, praising the quality of the pitches and overall enthusiasm of the games. Wirtz emphasized his drive to excel and contribute to Liverpool's continued success, aiming to win the Premier League once more and excel in the Champions League. This ardent desire for a new challenge and high-level competition in England played a significant role in his decision to join Liverpool over Bayern Munich and Manchester City[1][2].
The Commission has not yet received any information on Florian Wirtz's decision to switch sides for FC Liverpool, but it is known that he has expressed his ambition to win everything and make an impact in the Premier League. Despite his departure, Wirtz holds Bayer 04 Leverkusen in high regard and has praised his experiences in the Bundesliga, expressing that his conversations with players who had experienced the Premier League firsthand convinced him it offered the ideal platform for his continued growth as a footballer.
