Wirtz’s Instagram Sparks Excitement
Florian Wirtz’s Instagram post on June 3, 2025, denying claims he demanded Alexis Mac Allister’s No. 10 shirt at Liverpool, sent German media into a frenzy, with Bild’s Phillip Arens and Axel Hesse calling it a “remarkable event.” The 22-year-old Bayer Leverkusen star wrote, “Whoever says I want the 10? I respect players. Don’t believe everything that’s written,” refuting Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg. Bild hailed this as Wirtz’s first public signal of an impending move to Anfield, noting his rare engagement with transfer speculation. The post, seen as a respectful nod to Liverpool’s dressing room, has amplified excitement around his potential €130m (£109m) club-record transfer.
German Media’s Reaction
Bild emphasized Wirtz’s tone of respect, suggesting he’s already aligning with Liverpool’s team culture. The outlet noted his preference for No. 27, worn since his youth days at Köln and symbolized by a necklace, dispelling shirt-related rumors. Kicker echoed Bild, stating Wirtz’s post “shows he’s thinking like a Liverpool player,” while highlighting his talks with Arne Slot as pivotal. Sport Bild’s Christian Falk reported Leverkusen rejected Liverpool’s €130m bid, holding firm at €150m, but negotiations continue, with Wirtz’s commitment to Liverpool clear. Süddeutsche Zeitung called the post a “diplomatic masterstroke,” reinforcing his appeal to Reds fans. On X, @BILD_Sport labeled it a “game-changer,” reflecting German media’s view of Wirtz’s move as near-certain.
Implications for Liverpool
Wirtz’s message underscores his intent to integrate smoothly into Slot’s squad, where Mac Allister’s No. 10 role is central. His 16 goals and 15 assists in 2024/25 make him a perfect fit for Slot’s 4-2-3-1, offering versatility as a No. 10 or winger. German press, including Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, note Wirtz’s respect for teammates like Mac Allister could ease his transition, especially after Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong’s £30m move to Liverpool. Bild predicts Wirtz’s arrival could rival Mo
