Florian Wirtz signs with FC Liverpool. The DFB star explains his move and also reveals why he turned down FC Bayern.
It’s all settled! Florian Wirtz signed his contract with FC Liverpool on Friday evening. The long-time Leverkusen player is joining FC Liverpool, as officially announced by the Reds and Leverkusen on Friday.
At the same time, the 22-year-old also explained why he ultimately decided on the Reds and against FC Bayern at the end of the transfer saga.
“I am very much looking forward to having a new adventure ahead of me. That was also a major point in my considerations: I want to do something completely new, get out of the Bundesliga and into the Premier League,” Wirtz said on the club website.
The playmaker also revealed that he had already extensively informed himself about his new club. “I have also spoken to some players who have played there. And they all told me that it is perfect for me and you can enjoy every game. I am very much looking forward to my first game.”
Wirtz explains Bayern rejection
The German also made a direct and unmistakable announcement: “I’m not coming here to have fun, but also to achieve something and give the fans what they deserve.”
Above all, the physical style of play in England and especially at the Reds has fascinated the fine technician in the meantime. “Yes, that was also an important point for me: that I will improve my own personal and physical level. Because everyone knows that the players in Liverpool are machines – really strong and really physical,” he explained.
“I also see this as an opportunity for me to become better in this point. So yes, I just thought this was the right place for me.”
The deal around Wirtz is of historical proportions. Various media reports are circulating regarding the transfer fee. Sky reports of a fixed transfer fee of 130 to 135 million euros, which could increase to 150 million with bonuses. The Athletic wants to know of a fixed 117.5 million, which could increase to 136.3 million euros with bonuses.
Wirtz: “I would like to win everything every year!”
“I am very happy and very proud. Finally, the time has come. I have been waiting for this for a long time. Finally, the time has come and I am really happy,” Wirtz emphasized.
When asked about his goals with the club, he added: “I would like to win everything every year! In the end, we want to be successful. Last season they won the Premier League, so my goal is to win it again and also get further in the Champions League. I am very ambitious.”
At the same time as FC Liverpool, Bayer Leverkusen also officially announced the departure of their great leader. And Wirtz found emotional words.
“It is not easy to leave after five and a half great years. I have experienced something unique here in Leverkusen and enjoyed incredible moments. The club has always supported me and believed in me, even during the difficult time of my injury,” explained the right-footed player.
Wirtz added: “I would like to thank them for this and for the great sympathy that has been shown to me every day by those in charge, my teammates and really all employees. And to the fans of Bayer 04, who have driven me and the team all these years, I would like to say: It was an honor for me to do my best for you. I am already looking forward to seeing you again in a sporting context.”