Florian Wirtz, Liverpool’s record £116 million signing from Bayer Leverkusen, has revealed that his former coach, Xabi Alonso, fully backed his decision to join the Reds, despite rumors linking him with a move to Real Madrid.
Speaking on June 25, 2025, during his first days at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, the 21-year-old German star shared Alonso’s advice: “He was very happy I was coming here. He said Liverpool is the perfect club to develop, just like it was for him when he was 22.” Alonso’s words reflect his deep connection to Liverpool, where he famously lifted the Champions League trophy in 2005.
Alonso, who recently led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double before accepting the Real Madrid job, was widely expected to try to bring Wirtz to the Bernabeu. He even called Wirtz a future Ballon d’Or winner. Despite Madrid’s interest, Wirtz opted for Liverpool, impressed by new manager Arne Slot’s vision and the club’s personal approach, including direct engagement with his family.
The deal, completed on June 24, 2025, also reunites Wirtz with former Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong. He now joins a Liverpool attack featuring Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. Wirtz arrives following an outstanding 2024/25 season, during which he registered 18 goals, 20 assists, 104 key passes, and 87 successful dribbles — attracting attention from clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
Able to play as an attacking midfielder or winger, Wirtz fits naturally into Slot’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. Early training sessions suggest he’s adapting quickly. Alonso’s encouragement adds emotional weight to the move, drawing comparisons to his own Liverpool journey, which began at age 22.
Liverpool supporters have warmly welcomed Wirtz, reassured by Alonso’s endorsement. However, some remain wary of Real Madrid’s intentions, especially after the Spanish giants recently submitted an £80 million offer for Ibrahima Konaté.
Wirtz’s arrival is part of a summer recruitment drive exceeding £185.5 million — including Milos Kerkez and Frimpong — signaling Liverpool’s determination to defend their Premier League title. With his Anfield debut approaching, Alonso’s blessing serves as a powerful symbol for the start of an exciting new chapter in Liverpool’s storied history