From an almost anonymous beginning in the German footballing pyramid, Florian Wirtz has quickly become one of the most celebrated young talents in world football. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has been lighting it up at Bayer Leverkusen. He has transformed into an invaluable asset in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. The 2023/24 Bundesliga season’s Player of the Year, Wirtz currently ranks first in the league for high turnovers. The 20-year-old’s capacity to open up goalscoring chances and provide for his colleagues has captured the imagination of many elite sides, Liverpool included.
Wirtz’s statistics speak for themselves. And he somehow ranks fifth all-time in high turnovers for the Champions League. Surprisingly, he’s suited up for fewer games than a good number of his rivals. This remarkable achievement highlights his constant harrying pursuit style and skill to win the ball back for his side. With six goals in just nine European appearances this season, Wirtz’s prowess in front of goal is well documented.
Despite personal and professional adversity, Wirtz has shown a tremendous spirit and dedication to his craft. Although fielding great interest from Europe’s elite, he decided to remain at Bayer Leverkusen. Instead, he’s focusing on his own development and growth as a player. His strong sense of how he wanted to advance his career has rewarded him, allowing his remarkable talent and tireless work ethic to show through on the pitch.
A Pressing Machine
Wirtz’s playing style is best defined by his energetic two-way game. He currently leads the Bundesliga in high turnovers, a statistic that highlights his ability to pressure opponents and force mistakes. This go hard or go home approach to tilting the press not only rattles the other team but counter attacks opens up space for his own squad.
Over the course of the current season, Wirtz has already tried and succeeded a higher amount of take-ons than any other player in the Bundesliga. His agility and technical ability gives him the craftsmanship to maneuver through tight spaces, making him a consistent threat in attacking situations. Sporting director Simon Rolfes praised Wirtz’s skill set, emphasizing that he is “an excellent player but an excellent team player.”
“His willingness. He is so brave. His skillset is dangerous for every opponent. He can change the momentum of a game just by having an idea nobody expects and suddenly everything is different. He is a game changer.” – Marco Neppe
This claim was typical of Wirtz’s extraordinary ability to decide games on his own. His star power and actions on the field can tilt the balance. This has made him an indispensable player for Leverkusen and a highly sought after player by clubs such as Liverpool.
Overcoming Adversity
Wirtz’s journey has not been without obstacles. After initially being sidelined with an injury, he made it a priority to get back in shape and find his form. It’s been his drive and mental toughness that’s propelled him on and helped him develop into the player he is today. Rolfes emphasized these traits, praising Wirtz’s ambition and stoicism at a time of volatile politics.
“From the mental side, he is incredible. How he works, how ambitious he is, how stable he is emotionally… But this side of him is amazing. He is just so focused.” – Rolfes
Wirtz’s resilience speaks volumes about his character. This demonstrates he possesses the physical talent and mental toughness required to thrive at the highest level of football.
On his debut, back in December, Wirtz wowed Freiburg with his unique talent. Not only did he score one goal but he assisted three more in an incredible second-half performance. Those performances have cemented his status as one of Germany’s most exciting young players.
Looking Ahead
In addition to honing his craft, Wirtz is adamant about learning and understanding what it takes to be successful at the next level. He has made it clear that his commitment to Bayer Leverkusen is part of a broader strategy to enhance his skills and readiness for future challenges.
Lothar Matthaus, a former football star, emphasized the importance of players like Wirtz and Jamal Musiala for the younger generation. He praised their work ethic and love for the game as invaluable qualities that motivate emerging young stars.
“Very important, I think, for the younger generation of player… they are doing everything for the football. They like to go to training, they like to be on the field with their teammates, they like to always do something to improve.” – Lothar Matthaus
These words encapsulate Wirtz’s approach to the game: dedication and a desire to grow continually as a player.
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