Berlin, May 24: Germany midfielder Florian Wirtz has said he wants to inspire and drive the national team forward at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, as the young playmaker looks to make up for missing the previous edition due to injury.
The 23-year-old has returned to top form at the perfect time for Germany, producing a stunning display in the recent international window against Switzerland. Wirtz scored twice and assisted two more goals in Germany’s thrilling 4-3 victory, further cementing his importance in coach Julian Nagelsmann’s plans ahead of the global showpiece.
Reflecting on the performance, Wirtz admitted it was one of his most memorable nights in a Germany shirt. He revealed that his brother had predicted before the match that he would score twice, although he himself did not believe it at the time.
“It was a really special game for me personally, but more importantly, it was a great result for the team,” Wirtz said in an interview with FIFA. “When my brother texted me saying I’d score two goals, I just laughed it off. It was incredible that it actually happened.”
After struggling with injuries that ruled him out of the previous World Cup, Wirtz said the upcoming tournament holds enormous emotional value for him.“There’s nothing bigger than the World Cup. It’s every child’s dream,” he said. “I was close to being part of the last World Cup squad, but then I got injured. This time, I feel sharp and ready, and I can’t wait for the tournament to begin.”
Wirtz also spoke fondly of his earliest World Cup memories, recalling how the 2010 edition was the first tournament he truly followed closely. He remembered watching matches with friends and soaking in the festive atmosphere across Germany.
“The World Cup brings people together in a special way,” he said. (Agencies)
