Injury Blow: Florian Wirtz to Miss Germany's Nations League Quarter-Finals

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz out for several weeks with ligament injury, set to miss Champions League and Nations League matches.

Bayer Leverkusen has confirmed that Florian Wirtz, their attacking midfielder, will be sidelined for weeks due to a ligament injury. This unfortunate development means Wirtz will miss the Champions League Round of 16 return leg against Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

The injury is a significant setback for Bayer Leverkusen, who are currently eight points behind leaders Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. To make matters more challenging, Leverkusen must also attempt to overcome a 3-0 deficit in their all-German Champions League clash.

“Bayer 04 will have to manage without Florian Wirtz,” the club announced in a statement. This decision comes after Wirtz suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle during the home game against Werder Bremen on Saturday.

According to the club, the 21-year-old midfielder “will be out of action for several weeks.” This prolonged absence will undoubtedly impact Leverkusen's performance in upcoming matches.

Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen's attacking midfielder, has had an impressive season, scoring nine league goals and providing 10 assists. Additionally, he has netted six times in the Champions League. Unfortunately, his injury will not only impact Leverkusen but also Germany's national team.

Wirtz's absence will be felt in Germany's Nations League quarter-final legs against Italy, scheduled for March 20th and March 23rd. On the domestic front, Leverkusen, the current holders, have advanced to the German Cup semi-finals, where they will look to continue their success without Wirtz.

🤕 Florian Wirtz will face a spell on the sidelines. Keep your head up and come back stronger, Flo! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/jcWSSQLV4d

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) March 10, 2025

According to Simon Rolfes, Bayer 04's sporting managing director, “The loss of Florian obviously hits us hard in this phase of the season but we will compensate for him with a strong squad.” Rolfes expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt to Wirtz's absence.

Rolfes also shared his expectations for Wirtz's recovery, saying, “We know Florian and also know he will come back as soon as possible. We are assuming he will be fully fit again for the end of the season run-in.” This optimistic outlook suggests that Leverkusen is hopeful Wirtz will return to full strength before the season concludes.