Basel, Switzerland – Florian Wirtz is hitting his stride at precisely the right moment. After a period of adjustment following his move to Liverpool, the 22-year-vintage attacking midfielder delivered a dazzling performance in Germany’s 4-3 friendly victory over Switzerland on Friday, signaling his readiness for a pivotal role at this summer’s World Cup. The match, played at the sold-out St. Jakob-Park, showcased Wirtz’s creative brilliance and goal-scoring prowess, leaving a lasting impression on observers and reigniting excitement surrounding the German national team.
Lothar Matthäus, Germany’s record cap holder, was effusive in his praise, telling RTL after the match, “Stern hinter der Note eins plus. Besser kann man es nicht machen. Er war der Dreh- und Angelpunkt im deutschen Spiel” – a sentiment translating to a grade of “better than a 1+ with a star,” highlighting Wirtz’s central importance to the German attack. Wirtz’s performance was particularly crucial given the absence of Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala and the less impactful showing from Arsenal’s Kai Havertz in Basel.
Wirtz Shines in Swiss Test
Wirtz’s two goals and two assists were the driving force behind Germany’s first win against Switzerland in 18 years. The 34,316 fans in attendance witnessed a masterclass from the Liverpool playmaker, with his stunning strikes quickly going viral on social media. His parents, present in the stands, shared in the moment of pride as their son orchestrated a thrilling victory.
The attacking midfielder displayed a palpable joy in playing, scoring in the 62nd and 86th minutes, both goals showcasing his technical skill and composure. This victory comes on the heels of Liverpool’s progression to the Champions League quarter-finals, where they will face Paris Saint-Germain, demonstrating Wirtz’s growing influence at the club level as well. According to Transfermarkt, Wirtz joined Liverpool in July 2025 and currently has a market value of €110.00 million.
“My Best Game for the National Team”
Speaking to RTL after the match, Wirtz expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, “Wahrscheinlich war das mein bestes Länderspiel. Die Tore waren nicht kompletter Zufall, ich wollte die schon da hinschießen” – roughly translated as, “Probably that was my best game for the national team. The goals weren’t complete luck, I already intended to shoot them there.”
Despite conceding three goals, Wirtz remained optimistic, emphasizing the team’s overall quality. “We have a very decent team. All three goals were a bit avoidable, but it’s about winning the games,” he said. Looking ahead to the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Wirtz declared, “We naturally want to reach the final and bring the trophy home. Everyone knows it will be a tough road, but I believe we don’t have to hide from anyone.”
Next Test: Germany Faces Ghana
Head coach Julian Nagelsmann was equally impressed with Wirtz’s display. “Flo scored exceptional goals. We know he has a brutal shot and super creativity,” Nagelsmann commented after the victory. He highlighted Wirtz’s importance alongside Serge Gnabry and Havertz as key difference-makers for the national team.
Germany will have another opportunity to fine-tune their preparations when they face Ghana in a friendly on Monday at 20:45 (local time). Nagelsmann praised Wirtz’s commitment as a number ten or attacking midfielder, stating, “His engagement as a number ten, as a lateral ten, distinguishes him. He is already a name in world football. If he maintains this, he will be at the very top of all clubs for a long time. He always plays with the necessary power.”
Addressing Early Challenges
Nagelsmann too provided insight into his function with Wirtz, particularly during the player’s initial months after his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool, a period marked by some criticism. “He never performed poorly with us. It’s normal that such situations also occupy young people,” Nagelsmann explained. “It was a phase that wasn’t easy for a young player. He wasn’t used to getting headwinds.”
During this challenging time, Nagelsmann emphasized a closer working relationship with Wirtz, involving numerous conversations and open communication. “We found ourselves closer together, had many conversations. He opened up a lot. He is an intelligent and open type, a lot comes back in the conversation,” the coach revealed. Nagelsmann believes Wirtz can draw significant benefits from this difficult period at Liverpool, viewing it as a crucial part of his personal development. “It’s part of personality development that things don’t always go in one direction.”
Nagelsmann concluded by echoing Matthäus’s glowing assessment of Wirtz, playfully asking, “Who would disagree with Lothar?”
Germany’s next challenge comes against Ghana on Monday, providing another opportunity for Wirtz to showcase his burgeoning talent and solidify his position as a key player for the national team as they continue their preparations for the World Cup. Fans can follow the match live via sportdaten.welt.de.
