First discussions with Leverkusen
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When Florian Wirtz was substituted shortly before the end after his outstanding game against RB Salzburg, the spectators in the BayArena rose from their seats and celebrated their extraordinary footballer – a special moment for the 21-year-old. “I got a little goosebumps,” said the Bayer Leverkusen international. His fellow players were also enthusiastic about his performance. “It’s a pleasure to see him on the pitch. He has a great career ahead of him,” said midfielder Granit Xhaka.
Wirtz himself was very relaxed after the game and in an unusual mood to chat. His converted, albeit questionable, hand penalty opened the door to 1-0 for Leverkusen. “I got first place for the eleven. But I had also expressed my interest beforehand,” said Wirtz, who has five goals in his first five Champions League games – something no German player has achieved before.
Xabi Alonso knows what he has in his playmaker, goalscorer and assist provider. “We know he is a difference player for us. But we also have to help him find structures. He can’t be everywhere,” said his coach. It is also very important for Wirtz to show himself in these games. “He has this desire and this will to make the big plays,” Alonso said.
Bayer Leverkusen wants to extend with Wirtz
Wirtz should continue to play this for Leverkusen beyond the end of the season. As “Sport Bild” reports, the Werkself have held initial discussions with the family about extending the contract, which is valid until 2027. Wirtz should sign for at least another year. This would probably make him the first Bayer professional to receive a double-digit million salary per season. Those responsible are optimistic that the project will succeed.
If Wirtz ultimately decides against an extension, Leverkusen would prefer a sale next summer – ideally abroad. Internally, the risk appears to be too great that the price for the exceptional player could fall drastically due to the short contract period or that he could suffer a serious injury. Bayer boss Fernando Carro revealed after last season’s championship that he didn’t want to let Wirtz go for less than 150 million euros. In addition to FC Bayern, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Arsenal FC are considered serious options.
In addition to Wirtz’s two goals (8th/30th minute), Alejandro Grimaldo (11th), Patrik Schick (61st) and Aleix García (72nd) also scored in the clear 5-0 win against RB Salzburg. “We played with great quality today. We now have ten points and are in a good starting position before the last three games,” said Bayer’s coach Alonso.
