‘I hope I can be his level someday’ – Ibrahim Maza on comparisons with Florian Wirtz | OneFootball

Speaking during Bayer Leverkusen’s pre-season tour of Brazil, Ibrahim Maza discussed comparisons with Florian Wirtz, Erik ten Hag, and the Champions League.

“I don’t like being compared like that,” said Maza, when asked about comparisons with Wirtz. “Flo is obviously an incredible player – I hope I can say Flo. He became the most expensive signing in the Premier League, and I hope I can be at his level someday. I’m not there yet, but hopefully in the future.”

The €12m arrival of Maza from Hertha Berlin was wrapped up prior to Wirtz’ record-breaking departure to Liverpool, and when Xabi Alonso was still head coach. Speaking about Ten Hag, the German youth international commented on the Dutchman’s training.

“He’s a great coach, very tactically intelligent,” said the 19-year-old. “The training sessions are long and intense. I’ve already chatted with him a bit. He’s very nice, helps me, and gives me lots of good tips.”

Bayer Leverkusen will also be playing in the Champions League for successive seasons, a competition that Maza has dreamt of playing in. “It’s a dream of every soccer player,” added Maza. “You work towards it your whole life. Of course, I hope I get to experience it. And then we’ll see what happens.”

GGFN | Daniel Pinder