Wirtz Rejects Comparisons With Two German Legends
Florian Wirtz, a German national team footballer, stated in a press conference that he does not want to be compared with his teammate Musiala as the "new Podolski and Schweinsteiger" because, although both were "idols of the past," he prefers to be remembered for his own qualities and skills on the field.
Lukas Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger formed one of the most dangerous pairs during the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Almost two decades later, many have seen Musiala and Wirtz as a possible repeat of those forwards who thrilled the German fans.
"They are idols from the past, and we are happy to be compared to them. But we don't want to be the new Podolski and Schweinsteiger. We are different types of players and try to showcase our own qualities on the field. However, it's an honor to be compared to them," Wirtz affirmed.
The Bayer Leverkusen player also discussed Germany's debut, opening Euro 2024 this Friday against Scotland. Wirtz expressed confidence that his team has adapted "well" to their opponent's style of play and mentioned knowing what he wants to do "and how to approach it."
"When I receive the ball, I need to decide quickly. I enjoy dribbling, but it's mostly intuitive. You have to make the right decision at the right moment," he stated.
Additionally, he spoke about Musiala's playing style and his own, highlighting that both are players with a "difficult" style to predict because they have "many different solutions" for each play. "We are both well-prepared, and I think we will have a good match," he commented.
He also expressed being "very excited, motivated, and full of anticipation" for his first major tournament with Germany and praised his teammate Ilkay Gündogan: "I am very close to him, even off the field. He supports us and has great tactical qualities. It's important to have him on the field."
"It was a setback to have been injured before the World Cup. But I had an agreement with the coaching staff that it was best to continue my rehabilitation to be at one hundred percent. Now I am very happy to play my first tournament, especially in my own country," he concluded.
