Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has been advised to learn from Kylian Mbappe’s struggles at Real Madrid and reject offers from the Spanish giants and Manchester City. The 20-year-old Germany international has been in demand after helping Xabi Alonso’s side win the Bundesliga title last season, but Leverkusen are hoping to extend his contract and keep him at the club.
Germany legend Lothar Matthaus has urged Wirtz to stay put, citing the pressures of playing for a top-tier club and the intense media scrutiny that comes with it. Matthaus pointed to Mbappe’s struggles at Madrid as an example, stating that the French forward’s form has “faded away” since his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain.
“If I were Florian Wirtz, I would stay in Leverkusen until the 2026 World Cup,” Matthaus told Sky Sport Germany. “Extending his contract would make perfect sense. Making a big move always brings with it a lot of fuss that doesn’t go unnoticed. At Bayer, Wirtz is in his familiar, protected environment and could prepare himself perfectly for the World Cup.”
Matthaus praised Leverkusen as a top-tier club, citing their recent success and competitive squad. He also emphasized the strength of the Bundesliga, arguing that Wirtz does not necessarily need to leave to play at a higher level. “The Bundesliga is often underplayed, especially in our country,” Matthaus said. “It also has its appeal and there are now possibly three teams in the direct [Champions League] round of 16. The Bundesliga is stronger than it is often said to be.”
Wirtz has six goals and four assists in 14 Bundesliga outings this season, and his form will likely continue to attract admirers. However, with Leverkusen back in action against Freiburg on Saturday, Wirtz will focus on maintaining his impressive form and helping his team finish the year on a high.
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