Florian Wirtz bids farewell in emotional message after Man City transfer news
Florian Wirtz launched a goodbye message after an exit was confirmed amid ongoing rumours linking him with a move to Manchester City.
Man City are expected to be highly active in the upcoming transfer window following Kevin De Bruyne’s announcement that he will leave the club at the end of the season.
While several names have been mentioned as potential successors to the Belgian star, Wirtz appears to be City’s primary target. The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder has enjoyed a standout campaign and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest talents.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that Man City are in “pole position” to sign Wirtz after holding an initial meeting with Pep Guardiola.
Amid the growing speculation surrounding his future in Germany, the midfielder posted a farewell message on social media after his departure from the club was officially confirmed.
Florian Wirtz pays tribute to Xabi Alonso after confirmed Bayer Leverkusen departure
Bayer Leverkusen confirmed on 9 May that Xabi Alonso will leave the club at the end of the season, with a move to Real Madrid expected to be officially announced soon [BBC Sport].
Wirtz posted an emotional tribute to his manager on Instagram, bidding farewell with a heartfelt message:
“Thank you for everything coach!
“It was a pleasure to play for you and was always fun to come to training. Thanks for helping me to get on another level.
You’re not just a great manager but also a fantastic person!
We shared so many unforgettable memories that will always stay in my head and heart. Wish you all the best for your next chapter!”
Alonso leaves behind an incredible legacy in Germany, having guided Leverkusen to an unbeaten, treble-winning season last year — lifting the Bundesliga title, DFB-Pokal and Supercup in the process.
Under Alonso’s management, Wirtz has flourished, with the attacking midfielder registering 31 goals and assists this season, building on the 38 he produced the previous year.
| Season statistics | 2023/24 | 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 49 | 44 |
| Goals | 18 | 16 |
| Assists | 20 | 15 |
Man City face Liverpool and Bayern Munich in race for Wirtz
Although Football Insider revealed that Man City are determined to secure Wirtz’s signature, they are far from alone in their pursuit.
Bayern Munich have held long-standing interest in the 22-year-old and could be an attractive destination should he prefer to remain in Germany.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have also entered the race for Wirtz, with the Premier League champions reportedly keen to bring the midfielder to Anfield if he is open to a move abroad this summer.
The German international is expected to command a fee upwards of £100 million — a figure that has not discouraged the growing number of suitors.
As speculation continues to build, all eyes will be on where Wirtz chooses to play his football next season as the transfer saga unfolds.