
Michael Ballack Breaks Silence on Florian Wirtz's Bold Liverpool Move: 'Changes Are Needed'
2025-09-10
Author: Wei
In a stunning summer transfer twist, Florian Wirtz traded Bayern Munich for a record-breaking deal to Liverpool, and Michael Ballack is weighing in on the decision.
Ballack, a former Bayern star, expressed that he wasn't shocked by Wirtz's choice. The German midfielder, once a hot prospect at Bayer Leverkusen, turned down Bayern’s advances for a lucrative contract at Anfield that could rise to a staggering £116 million. The Bavarian giants did not take the news lightly, critiquing Wirtz's move publicly after losing out on such a promising talent.
As German media scrutinized Wirtz's early performances post-move, Ballack reflected on his own experiences transferring from Leverkusen to Bayern in 2002, where he enjoyed immense success, clinching three Bundesliga titles.
However, the football legend highlights a shifting landscape in European football: 'Of course, English clubs pay insane amounts,' he told Bild, referencing Bayern's failed pursuit of Wirtz and striker Nick Woltemade. Despite Bayern's attempt at a €100 million package for Wirtz, Ballack conveyed his concerns about the Bundesliga's attractiveness for elite players.
He posed a pivotal question: 'Does it make sense for Wirtz to stay in the Bundesliga with Bayern for another few years, winning titles? Or does he need the challenge that the Premier League provides?' This shift in dynamics, he argues, significantly diminishes the Bundesliga’s allure, resulting in the need for strategic changes within the league.
Despite the pressure, Wirtz has started in all of Liverpool's matches this season, making an impact with an assist in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace but yet to score in the Premier League. He did, however, showcase his talent with a stunning free-kick goal during Germany's 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland.
Admitting to the challenges of adapting to a new league, Wirtz stated, 'It might take a few more games. It’s a different league and a different kind of football.' With hopes of a breakthrough in the upcoming matches, he remains optimistic about finding the back of the net sooner rather than later. 'Hopefully, in the next game. It will come eventually,' he concluded.