Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has fired a shocking warning to Bayer Leverkusen's prodigious talent Florian Wirtz, threatening to axe him from the national squad unless his form dramatically improves.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder, once hailed as the future of German football, is facing the most critical moment of his young career following a serious conversation with the national coach.
A Stern Wake-Up Call
According to exclusive reports, Nagelsmann delivered a brutally honest assessment of Wirtz's recent performances, highlighting a significant dip in form since his return from a devastating ACL injury that sidelined him for nearly a year.
'The conversation wasn't pleasant for him,' revealed a source close to the German camp. 'Julian made it absolutely clear that current reputation and past potential mean nothing. Performance is everything.'
From Golden Boy to Fighting for His Place
Wirtz's meteoric rise seemed unstoppable before his injury in March 2022. His return last January was met with fanfare, but he has struggled to recapture the electrifying form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after youngsters.
This stern approach from Nagelsmann marks a significant shift in management style from his predecessor, Hansi Flick, and signals a new era of accountability within the German setup as they build towards a home Euro 2024.
The Ultimatum: Perform or Be Dropped
The message from the Germany boss is unequivocal: Wirtz must elevate his game at club level with Bayer Leverkusen if he hopes to retain his place in the national team.
This development places immense pressure on the young star as he enters a crucial period of the Bundesliga season, with his international career hanging in the balance.
