Why Florian Wirtz didn't join Bayern - father explains decision
Leverkusen's starboy Florian Wirtz joined Liverpool a few weeks ago for a transfer fee of around €125 million - but before the deal was official, there were many rumours linking Wirtz to Bayern Munich. Why did this move fall flat in the end?
Florian's father and agent Hans Wirtz has finally spoken to “Der Spiegel” about his son's decision to join the Reds and why he declined the opportunity to play for Bayern Munich…
Hans Wirtz on the meetings with Uli Hoeneß and rumours about an agreement with Bayern: “I couldn't give a commitment, because Florian ultimately makes the decision. It was still open at the time.”
“The situation was difficult, because Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge made incredible efforts and also made a clear analysis of the sporting aspect. I have the greatest respect for Uli Hoeneß and his life's work.”
“After Florian's ACL tear in 2022, he selflessly helped us to quickly get an appointment for surgery in Innsbruck. We are still grateful to him for that. That's why the final phone call with Uli Hoeneß was very difficult for me.”
It is said that Hans Wirtz and Uli Hoeneß had been in regular contact over the last few years, with Hoeneß being an admirer of Florian Wirtz for a long time. Hans Wirtz also talked about Hoeneß' reaction to the rejection:
“We had spoken several times beforehand, so he was as objective and fair as I'd ever known him. But of course, he couldn't hide his disappointment. After all, he had personally worked hard to bring about this transfer.”
Hans Wirtz also talked about the reported meeting with all Bayern bosses, including head coach Vincent Kompany, who, according to the “SZ” newspaper, wasn't able to convince Florian Wirtz of a transfer:
“Vincent Kompany also had very good thoughts and ideas about how he wanted to integrate Florian into the Bayern team. In the end, it was a matter of details; the decision ultimately had to do with the different sporting situations and Florian's role.”
“Financially, there weren't any major differences between the two clubs. Again, Bayern Munich really tried hard, but a decision had to be made. Florian saw the move abroad as a new personal and sporting challenge and therefore chose Liverpool. We all shared this view.”
