Wirtz: No pressure, I just enjoy playing

Florian Wirtz on…

…his rapid development from a youth player to a key performer since his move from FC Köln to Bayer 04 in January 2020: My only aim with the move was to become a regular first team player. Of course, it's great it's all happened so quickly. But I didn't put myself under pressure or set a timescale but instead gave my all in every training session and I used my time on the pitch.

…dealing with pressure when he was younger: I don't think the performance of the team depends on me. Of course, I always do my best and everybody sees that. But I don't put pressure on myself to play well. I've got good teammates for that who also always give their all.

…the relationship with head coach Gerardo Seoane: We get on very well with each other. He talks a lot to us players and often looks to start conversations. He shows me little things about how I can improve my game. I think the fact I always give 100% in every training session obviously pleases him a lot as the coach. (He laughs)

…the relationship with his teammates: Although I get on as well with the older teammates, it’s also really good we’ve got lots of very young players in the squad. We often meet in our time-off and, for example, I meet up with Jeremie (Frimpong, ed.) almost every day. The good relationships help us on the pitch as everybody is there for each other.

…the attraction of the Bundesliga: For me, it's one of, if not the most, interesting in the world. Obviously, Bayern are often champions but it's all up for grabs after them. Nowhere else are things as tight and exciting as in Germany.

…his role in the national team: I always try to make it. The more often I'm there, the more I can show what I can do and stake a claim. My first target is to give my all at Leverkusen so that the national coach takes notice of me. I definitely want to be at the World Cup in the winter.

…his interest in other sports: I'm interested in lots of sports. For example, the Germany handball international Julian Köster also comes from Brauweiler. When I was watching the European Championships in the past days and weeks, I wished him lots of success before the games.

…family support and his nine siblings: I'm very happy about having such a big family. I've got a good relationship with all of them. They're there for me, they support me and give me lots of energy.