Wirtz's Father Exposes Liverpool's Master Plan That Stunned Bayern Munich in Transfer Battle

Wirtz's Father Exposes Liverpool's Master Plan That Stunned Bayern Munich in Transfer Battle

Liverpool manager Arne Slot's personal approach, not monetary considerations, proved decisive in Florian Wirtz's choice to reject Bayern Munich this summer, according to the player's father.

Following his decision to depart Bayer Leverkusen at year's end, Wirtz became the center of an intense transfer battle. Real Madrid and Manchester City were reportedly tracking the talented attacking midfielder, though the competition eventually narrowed to a head-to-head contest between England's and Germany's title holders.

"Ultimately, it came down to fine details," Wirtz's father and representative Hans-Joachim explained to Spiegel. "The choice was influenced by varying sporting circumstances and Florian's potential role. Monetarily, both clubs offered comparable packages."

Bayern openly courted the rising star, whom honorary president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge praised as "Germany's finest player." Bayern legend Uli Hoeneß maintained regular dialogue with Wirtz Sr. during negotiations, leveraging a personal bond dating to 2022. When Florian suffered an ACL injury at Leverkusen, Hoeneß's intervention secured prompt surgical treatment for the prospect.

Florian Wirtz

"Bayern's pursuit was challenging given Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge's tremendous commitment and their thorough assessment of sporting opportunities," the father acknowledged. "My final conversation with Uli Hoeneß was particularly tough," he confessed.

However, Liverpool's manager emerged victorious in this recruitment race. "Arne Slot managed to persuade Florian on sporting grounds," Wirtz Sr. disclosed. "He's also genuinely likeable.

"Florian's most effective coaches have always granted him considerable freedom. Those with strong emotional intelligence have connected best with Florian. He's drawn to English football's emphasis on speed and energy. Arne Slot outlined his tactical approach, possession-based systems and pressing strategies, plus how Florian could maximize his abilities within that framework. This presentation left a lasting impact on Florian.

"Liverpool's training facilities were equally remarkable. Additionally: Florian is at an ideal age for an international move. Family responsibilities make such transitions more complex later."

After discussions with Wirtz's mother, Karin Groß, who shares equal responsibility for managing her son's career alongside his father, all parties reached agreement.

"We three shared identical views and collectively decided on Liverpool," Hans-Joachim Wirtz stated. "Florian viewed the overseas transfer as both a personal and professional adventure, leading to his Liverpool FC selection. We supported that choice."