Mansion Sports - In an exclusive interview with German publication Der Spiegel, Hans-Joachim Wirtz—the father and agent of rising German star Florian Wirtz—has disclosed the key reasons behind his son’s decision to join Liverpool Football Club, despite serious interest from both Bayern Munich and Manchester City. 

The young midfielder’s move to Anfield broke the Premier League’s transfer record, sparking widespread discussion about the rationale behind the 22-year-old’s career-defining choice.

Bayern Munich Once Led the Race, But No Concrete Promises Were Made

Hans-Joachim Wirtz confirmed that Bayern Munich was, at one stage, the leading contender for Florian’s signature. 

He personally met with key Bayern executives, including Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who demonstrated a deep commitment to bringing the midfielder to Bavaria.

Nonetheless, Hans-Joachim emphasized that the final decision was entirely Florian’s to make.

“I couldn’t give any commitment because, in the end, the decision rested solely with Florian. At that point, everything was still open.”

He further elaborated on the complexity of the Bayern situation, noting the emotional depth of the conversations, particularly given the longstanding personal support Florian had received from Hoeneß. 

During Wirtz’s anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2022, Hoeneß played an instrumental role in arranging swift surgical treatment in Innsbruck—an act of kindness the family did not forget.

Thus, when the final decision was made in favor of Liverpool, the last phone call to Uli Hoeneß proved to be emotionally challenging, given the mutual respect and history between the two parties.

Turning Point: A Personal Meeting with Arne Slot

A pivotal moment in the decision-making process came in May, when the Wirtz family traveled to Liverpool to meet the club’s new head coach, Arne Slot. 

During the meeting, Slot offered an in-depth presentation of his footballing philosophy and outlined the specific role Florian would play in his tactical system.

“Arne Slot left a tremendous impression on Florian—both on and off the pitch. He is a genuinely pleasant and thoughtful individual,” Hans-Joachim said.

He further noted that Florian has historically thrived under coaches who afford him tactical freedom and who understand his character. 

The intensity and pace of English football were also key attractions for the midfielder, aligning well with his skill set.

Slot’s focus on possession-oriented football and high pressing was described as a perfect match for Wirtz’s playing style. Additionally, the infrastructure and training facilities at Liverpool made a positive impact on the Wirtz family during their visit.

Hans-Joachim concluded that at 22 years of age, the timing was ideal for Florian to move abroad. 

He explained that it is more feasible for young professionals to take bold steps early in their careers, before the constraints of family life potentially limit future mobility.

Bayern Munich Failed to Convince, Despite Financial Parity

While Bayern Munich made a strong bid to secure Wirtz—holding formal meetings and devising tactical plans under new head coach Vincent Kompany—they ultimately could not sway the player’s decision.

“Vincent Kompany shared excellent ideas about how Florian would fit into his system,” Hans-Joachim acknowledged. “But in the end, it came down to nuances—primarily the sporting context and the role Florian would play at each club.”

He was also clear in stating that financial considerations were not the determining factor. The contract offers from both Liverpool and Bayern were similar in value. 

What ultimately tipped the scale was Liverpool’s comprehensive project, their sporting clarity, and how Florian’s long-term aspirations aligned with the club’s vision.

Bayern Faces Transfer Challenges After Losing Wirtz

Bayern Munich’s failure to sign Florian Wirtz has caused a ripple effect in their transfer strategy. Following the rejection by Nico Williams, Bayern has reportedly shifted its focus to Wirtz’s new teammate at Liverpool, Luis Díaz. Simultaneously, their pursuit of Nick Woltemade has encountered setbacks.

The story behind Florian Wirtz’s transfer to Liverpool goes far beyond financial figures. It highlights the thoughtful deliberation of a young player who, supported by his family, weighed technical, emotional, and career-development factors before making one of the most significant decisions of his professional life.