Real Madrid Legend Warns Liverpool What They're Getting Into With Florian Wirtz
Former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos has disclosed that Liverpool have acquired a "truly exceptional talent" in Florian Wirtz and considers his move to the Premier League champions to be the correct choice.
Liverpool outmaneuvered clubs including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester City for Wirtz's services this summer following an agreement on a £116 million fee with add-ons from Bayer Leverkusen.
The creative midfielder represents one of football's most promising young stars and played a pivotal role in Leverkusen's remarkable domestic double during the 2023-24 campaign, prompting Liverpool to break their transfer record for the German international.
The Merseyside club has already seen flashes of Wirtz's brilliance during preseason—including providing an assist in the recent Community Shield—and his fellow countryman and former national team colleague Kroos thinks Liverpool have struck gold with their new No.7.
"You're a truly exceptional talent, in numerous ways," the Madrid legend Kroos commented about Wirtz following the 22-year-old's recognition as Kicker's Footballer of the Year for 2025. "From my first observation of your play, I instantly recognized you possess far more than just natural ability.
"Your spatial awareness, initial ball control, decisive passing, and goal-scoring ability—all aspects are remarkable. Beyond that, there's your character! You possess confidence in your abilities, and it shows.
"You don't accept mediocrity—you maintain a subtle yet crucial element of self-assurance that I trust you'll always preserve. In my view, your decision to join Liverpool FC was absolutely correct, and it reflects your determination and belief."
Wirtz will look to create an instant impact with Liverpool fans when he takes the field at Anfield for his Premier League bow on Friday evening, as the Reds welcome Bournemouth for their season opener.
Liverpool fans can anticipate significant contributions from their new signing considering his impressive tally of 34 goals and 33 assists over his final two campaigns at Leverkusen.