Bayern Munich Legend Issues Scathing Review of Liverpool's Florian Wirtz Signing

A Bayern Munich legend has issued a scathing verdict on Liverpool's signing of Florian Wirtz.

The German midfielder completed a huge £116m move to Anfield in June, with £100m guaranteed and £16m in performance-related add-ons. Liverpool had to fended off competition from Bayern Munich and Manchester City to secure his signature, breaking the British transfer record in the process.

But Wirtz has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League. The 22-year-old is yet to register a goal or assist in a Liverpool shirt, and question marks are already being raised about the move.

One of the critical voices has been former Bayern Munich player and chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who believes Wirtz would have been better staying in Germany. He was asked in a recent interview if Bayern are now struggling to attract top players.

Florian Wirtz has struggled at Liverpool. Image: Richard Sellers/Allstar / Contributor via Getty

Rummenigge said: "I have to honestly say, I still feel sorry for Florian Wirtz because I think the player would be better off at Bayern Munich than at Liverpool.

"We could have signed Woltemade. But I also have to say: FC Bayern would be well advised not to go along with every financial madness.

"I've always said: We want sporting success, but please with serious and solid financing. We have a top team.

"We'll be back this year as well. And if the three currently injured players ( Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito) come back soon, then we'll have a superb team."

Florian Wirtz playing against Bayern Munich. Image: Alexander Hassenstein / Staff via Getty

How have fans reacted to Rummenigge's comments?

Rummenigge's comments have sparked debate among football fans, with mixed reaction on social media.

On Reddit, @Billofrights_boris wrote: "Ah yes, classic Rummennigge/Hoeness opinion. Ragebait for Bayern fans, clown show for anyone else."

Another fan, @Wolvington52 added: "I don't know how Wirtz would've performed at Bayern but I am glad that he didn't end up there."

Liverpool supporters also pushed back against Rummennigge.

"I can’t imagine being so bitter and entitled," @WellRed85 said.

"If Liverpool’s higher ups went sounding off about how Zubimendi would be better off at Liverpool or whatever, I’d be mortified."

However, some fans admitted that Wirtz's form so far has been disappointing.

@nutelamitbutter wrote: "He’s correct. Wirtz has been average at best at Liverpool so far."

Although Rummennigge's comments divided opinion, Liverpool fans are unlikely to be overly concerned. Arne Slot's side have started the league perfectly, winning their first five league games.

Wirtz meanwhile has been able to take his time and adapt to Slot's system.

But the German international, who finished 29th in this week's Ballon d'Or, will be eager to silence the critics and remind people why Liverpool smashed the transfer record for his signature.