The German legend has issued a stark warning about his home league’s declining status, using the young star’s big-money move to the Premier League as a prime example.
Former Chelsea and Bayern Munich star Michael Ballack has suggested that Florian Wirtz’s decision to join Liverpool this summer is a damning indictment of the Bundesliga’s lack of competitiveness.
Wirtz, one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, was heavily linked with a return to Germany with champions Bayern Munich. However, the 21-year-old playmaker ultimately chose a new challenge, completing a blockbuster £116 million move to Liverpool in June.
While many assumed a transfer to Bayern—a club that virtually guarantees domestic trophies—was a foregone conclusion, Ballack believes the Premier League’s superior appeal was the deciding factor.
Speaking to German publication Bild, Ballack expressed concern that the Bundesliga is “slowly going downhill” and is no longer attractive to the world’s very best players.
“Of course, English clubs pay insane amounts,” Ballack stated, acknowledging the financial power of the Premier League. He revealed that Bayern was prepared to put together a package worth up to €100 million for Wirtz but was still outmaneuvered.
For a player like Wirtz, Ballack argues, winning another Bundesliga title with Bayern lacks the prestige it once held. “Of course, he wins championships there. But is the Bundesliga still a challenge for him at the highest level? No, because the Bundesliga was overtaken by the Premier League years ago. That’s the reality.”
Ballack’s comments serve as a strong warning to German football, suggesting that until the league becomes more competitive, it will continue to lose its brightest stars to the financial and sporting allure of England.
Similar Posts:
- Florian Wirtz Chooses Liverpool Over Bayern Munich in Stunning Transfer Decision
- Florian Wirtz Stays Calm Amid Liverpool and Bayern Transfer Battle
- Manchester City Withdraw from Florian Wirtz Race as Transfer Costs Skyrocket
- Florian Wirtz Sparks Transfer Frenzy as Europe’s Elite Circle Leverkusen Star
- Man City Make “Decisive Move” for Bundesliga Sensation Florian Wirtz
