Michael Ballack tells Florian Wirtz 'reality' after 'insane' Liverpool move - 'changes are needed'

Michael Ballack has had his say on Florian Wirtz's decision to reject Bayern Munich in favour of joining Liverpool this summer

Michael Ballack was not surprised to see Florian Wirtz reject Bayern Munich in favour of a move to Liverpool this summer. The Bavarians had been favourites to sign the Germany international from Bayer Leverkusen, only to see him snub their advances in favour of a then-record switch to Anfield in a deal worth up to £116m.

Bayern did not react well to missing out on the midfielder, with club chiefs firing numerous public digs following his decision.

The German media have also taken a particularly harsh approach to Wirtz during the September international break following a quiet start to his Anfield career.

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Ballack joined Bayern from Leverkusen himself in the summer of 2002, winning three Bundesliga titles with the club before departing for Chelsea on a free transfer at the end of his contract in 2006.

And while the former midfielder insists a move to Bayern would have been a good move for Wirtz, he admits the Bundesliga is no longer attractive to top players and can’t compete with the Premier League for elite stars.

"Of course, English clubs pay insane amounts,” Ballack told Bild when asked about his former club failing to sign both Wirtz and striker Nick Woltemade. “But even for Wirtz, Bayern were prepared to put together a package worth up to €100 million.

“And as for Nick Woltemade: That's a different case. Bayern has a financial budget. The club has excelled for decades by staying out of debt and growing big.

“That's why I understand why Bayern decided not to pay more than €55 million for Woltemade. Because the player wasn't worth more to them.

“But fundamentally, I'm concerned about something else. Let's take Wirtz as an example: Does it make sense for him and his development to play in the Bundesliga for Bayern for another two or three years?

“Of course, he wins championships there. But is the Bundesliga still a challenge for him at the highest level?

“No, because the Bundesliga was overtaken by the Premier League years ago.

“That's the reality. That's why it's generally no longer as attractive for the absolute top players. That's why changes are needed."

Wirtz has started all four of Liverpool’s games so far this season, returning an assist on his debut in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace but is yet to return a goal contribution in the Premier League.

However, he did score a stunning free-kick in Germany’s 3-1 win over Northern Ireland during the September international break.

Speaking after the game, the 22-year-old admitted it might take a little while longer for him to open his account for Liverpool as he continues to adapt to Premier League football.

"It might take a few more games," Wirtz told broadcaster RTL. "It's a different league and a different kind of football.

"When will I score for the first time? I have no idea. Hopefully, in the next game. It will come eventually."

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