SPORTSWORLD.AM
Liverpool's record signing of Florian Wirtz wasn't just about money - it started with emotion. The allure of Anfield, the weight of history and the vision it gave him proved irresistible as the pursuit of the 22-year-old led to three clubs.
Manchester City and Liverpool all made their bids. All offered money, status and promises. But only one club offered everything Wirtz was looking for. It was a surprise to some that Liverpool were able to take control of the situation, but the club had been eyeing him for years. Members of the executive team had known about Wirtz since his early days at Cologne, and although the player himself had long admired Liverpool, the 4-0 Champions League defeat at Anfield in November also played a decisive role. While he was on the losing side that night, the football scene and culture awakened something in him that would play a crucial role in Liverpool's eventual triumph.
At the time, this was not fully publicised. In fact, there was a strong belief that if he were to end up in England, he would be wearing Manchester City's colours. Pep Guardiola had made a personal offer, explaining to Wirtz and his representatives how they could see him in the role of Kevin De Bruyne. There was a deep intention behind the move, as Wirtz was to become a central player in a team that would return to glory in the 2025/26 season. Wirtz was interested, but he also had reservations. Most of these were related to what would happen if Guardiola left the club. City's success was due to his footballing vision, but Guardiola could not give guarantees about what would happen after his current contract, which expires in 2027. The public perception was that City had decided to walk away from the deal, citing the extortionate figures attached as too expensive. Other sources do not believe this to be the case. Instead, Wirtz was still contemplating life at Liverpool, who were chasing Premier League glory under new manager Arne Slott. However, Bayern Munich were also present. It is rare for a Bundesliga talent to be allowed to leave without Bayern having at least tried to sign him, and the German powerhouses had been preparing for years to do just that with Wirtz. Bayern believed they had the inside track on Wirtz and were confident they could get a deal done.
In May, they began to press their attempt to sign him in earnest, and while those around Wirtz were impressed by the offers, Wirtz himself was not so sure it was right for him. At the same time, Liverpool officials showed their strength and passion in convincing him that Anfield could indeed be the home of his dreams.