Ex-Liverpool manager is “looking forward” to seeing Wirtz play for the club; midfielder was signed for a British transfer record of £116m
Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has praised the club’s signing of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, calling the Germany international an “exceptional talent” and predicting great things ahead.
Klopp may have stepped away from the Anfield dugout, but the legendary manager is still keeping a close eye on his former club. This summer he has seen the 22-year-old Wirtz join Liverpool in a £116m deal, breaking the British transfer record.
Klopp, speaking to German reporters, was full of admiration for both the player and the club’s bold move in the market.
“This is going to be absolutely fantastic, I’m sure of it,” said Klopp. “It’s very hard to strengthen a team when you’re champions. But Liverpool have managed it. They’ve signed an exceptional talent in Florian Wirtz. I’m looking forward to seeing it. It’s going to be great.”
Wirtz arrives at Anfield having helped Bayer Leverkusen to a historic unbeaten domestic run in 2023-24, helping the club secure their first-ever Bundesliga title. Last season, the young playmaker delivered 16 goals and 15 in 45 games for Leverkusen.
Liverpool had to fend off competition from Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Manchester City to secure Wirtz’s signature. The player said he was convinced by the club’s vision under new manager Arne Slot.
Wirtz will play alongside fellow former Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong, who joined the Reds earlier in the window.
Liverpool’s ambition in the transfer market follows their Premier League title win last season. Wirtz’s signing is a statement of intent – that they want to remain at the top of English football.
Klopp coached Liverpool from 2015 until his departure in 2024, winning one Premier League title, one Champions League, an FA Cup, two EFL Cups and a FIFA Club World Cup.
