Florian Wirtz had to wait nine months for this moment: The young international has celebrated his comeback.
Glasgow (dpa / lnw) - The first 29 minutes are a glimmer of hope, but after his nine-month injury break, Florian Wirtz was completely exhausted. "I'm not used to the strain after the long break. Everything in my lungs hurts when it's cold, then emotions come along and it all affects the body," said the 19-year-old midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen celebrated his comeback after suffering a cruciate ligament rupture on March 13 in the friendly against Glasgow Rangers (0:3) on Saturday.
Simon Rolfes also explained the importance of the performance. "It's also a special day for him. After such a long injury break, you don't forget the first game afterwards," said Bayer's sporting director. The short playing time was enough to show how much the young national player was missed in the Leverkusen game. "We saw today how special he is and what special skills he has," explained head coach Xabi Alonso.
Wirtz is considered the great hope for the rest of the Rhinelander's season. "He's an important player and also has a big influence on the team and our game. But it doesn't just depend on him, the other players also have to make a step forward. Florian also helps the other players to improve," said Rolfes. The 40-year-old also sees Wirtz in an important role in the national soccer team. "Hansi Flick has already integrated young players like Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz and Florian. This generation must now take the next step towards the European Championship in their own country," demands Rolfes, who is impressed by the disciplined and meticulous attitude of the young star. "I have a lot of respect for how he has mastered this rehab - far from the round leather."
Alonso will carefully introduce the returnee to the stresses. "He worked very well and he has the motivation. But we have to be patient," warned the Leverkusen coach, who also spoke of a "great winter signing". For Wirtz, all that counts now is step by step. "I'm looking forward to starting again in the Bundesliga, playing in front of our fans and in full stadiums," said the 19-year-old. He urgently needs more time for this. The next opportunity to do so is on December 17 in the last friendly of the year against FC Zurich.
