Liverpool’s record-breaking signing of Florian Wirtz became one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer. Many expected the 22-year-old German playmaker to join Bayern Munich, but his father has now revealed why Arne Slot’s Liverpool project won his heart.
Speaking to Der Spiegel, Hans-Joachim Wirtz explained how Slot’s playing philosophy and personality convinced his son to move to Anfield for a deal worth £116m.
Slot’s Vision Impressed Wirtz
“Arne Slot has impressed Florian on the pitch. He’s also a very pleasant person,” Wirtz Snr said.
“Florian’s best coaches have always been those who gave him plenty of freedom. And those with the greatest empathy have also reached Florian. He finds the game in England interesting because it thrives on pace and dynamism.
“Arne Slot presented his playing philosophy, the team tactics in possession and pressing, and how Florian can develop his strengths in these areas. This made a decisive impression on Florian. The training conditions in Liverpool were also totally impressive.”
Wirtz’s father also confirmed that talks with Bayern progressed well but described the final call with Uli Hoeness as “very difficult”, as they ultimately chose Liverpool’s ambitious project.
Mohamed Salah x Florian Wirtz in Liverpool training.
Liverpool Still Active in Market
After signing Wirtz, Liverpool are still not done in the transfer window. The Reds are closing in on Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike after being told Alexander Isak will not leave Newcastle this summer.
