Florian Wirtz promises to raise his game and lead Bayer Leverkusen in the 2024/25 season

Florian Wirtz is the kind of player who isn't content with his current success. At 21, already considered one of the most promising talents in German soccer, he doesn't let himself get carried away by the achievements of last season, in which he shone and led Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles. With a mindset focused on constant development, Wirtz is the kind of player every coach wants to have in their squad. His determination to constantly improve his game and his desire to continue growing under Xabi Alonso make him a key part of Leverkusen's plans for 2024/25.

Wirtz's stay at Bayer Leverkusen was not for lack of interest from European giants. The young attacking midfielder was the target of several offers on the transfer market, but the high price demanded by the German club, coupled with Xabi Alonso's firm stance on keeping his talent, ruled out any possibility of him leaving. The player has a contract until 2027, and the minimum price for a deal is around 150 million euros. This figure, which may seem astronomical to many, reflects Wirtz's importance to Leverkusen and how much the club is betting on his potential.

For Wirtz, however, the focus is on continuing to grow and helping his team reach new heights. In his own words, he is not satisfied with what he has achieved and wants more. "No, that's not my attitude. I want to improve my performances and, above all, get a bit better. We also want to succeed as a team and I don't think it would do us any good if we stopped at what we achieved last season," he said. It's this mentality that sets him apart from many other young talents who settle for initial success.

Wirtz also stresses the importance of making good decisions on the pitch and being dangerous in both attack and defense. For him, physique is crucial, but it's only one aspect of what a complete player should have. "You have to make sure your body is well looked after and that you're strong. Everything else comes automatically," explains Wirtz, showing maturity beyond his years. He doesn't just want to be a good player; he wants to be the best, constantly evolving and adapting his game.

The confidence he shows in himself and his team is palpable. Wirtz understands that last season's success was the result of teamwork, and he is keen to stress the importance of his teammates. "It's definitely a great honor, because there are some good players in the league, and that makes me happy, of course. I'm proud to have been voted the best player of the (Bundesliga) season. Of course, I want to play well and inspire people again this season," he says.

As far as Bayer Leverkusen's future is concerned, Wirtz knows that next season will be challenging, especially with the expectation created by the 34-game unbeaten run in the Bundesliga. However, he doesn't see this as a problem, but as an opportunity to keep growing and improving. "Losing is never fun, so of course I hope it doesn't happen. However, we know that it's not normal not to lose a game. That's how we're going to approach it," says Wirtz with a calm confidence, showing that he and the team are ready to face any adversity.

Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Wirtz has become an even more impactful presence on the pitch. His versatility, tactical intelligence and ability to dribble past his markers make him a constant threat to any defense. Playing on the left side of midfield in a 3-4-2-1 formation, he has excelled at both creating play and finishing, amassing an impressive 18 goals and 20 assists last season. This performance only reinforces how essential he is to Bayer Leverkusen's continued success.

By keeping him at Bayer Leverkusen, the German club is securing not only a star in their squad, but also a leader on the pitch. And while many European clubs will have to wait to try and sign him, Wirtz will continue to grow and shine in the Bundesliga, taking the Lions to new heights.