Bayer Leverkusen coach Erik ten Hag has said it will be “almost impossible” to replace star player Florian Wirtz after the midfielder’s big €125 million move to Liverpool.
Wirtz was one of Leverkusen’s best players, helping them win the Bundesliga in 2024 with 11 goals and 12 assists. Last season, he did almost the same again — 10 goals and 13 assists — as the team finished second behind Bayern Munich.
This summer has been tough for Leverkusen. They have lost more big names like Jeremie Frimpong and Granit Xhaka, while former coach Xabi Alonso left to manage Real Madrid. Ten Hag is now in charge.
Leverkusen ended their pre-season with a 2-0 loss to Chelsea. After the match, Ten Hag praised Wirtz’s talent.
“Players like Wirtz are special. He’s young but makes a big difference for club and country. Replacing him is almost impossible, but we will try,” Ten Hag said.
The club has signed Ibrahim Maza from Hertha Berlin for €12 million and Malik Tillman from PSV for €35 million. They are also interested in Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche.
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