Prior to the match between Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund, Ballack discussed the potential transfer of Florian Wirtz, the young star of the team, to Bayern Munich with Simon Rolfes, Leverkusen’s sporting director, and Fernando Carro, the club’s CEO.

Rolfes initially stated: “We have the confidence and ambition to replace top players with top players. Our goal is to have not only a renowned coach next season but also an outstanding team.”

Ballack immediately steered the conversation to Wirtz and asked: “You opened the discussion. Let’s start from the top. What is Florian Wirtz’s situation?” Rolfes smiled and replied: “He is a Bayer Leverkusen player. The news sometimes published in the media, especially by one outlet, is one side of the story. We have a relationship of trust with Florian and his family. We are trying to keep him next season. We know there is a lot of interest in him, and this issue is still open.”

Rolfes was referring to a report by Bild, which claimed that Bayern and Wirtz had reached an agreement on a transfer, even though Wirtz’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2027, and the timing of his potential move (this summer or next year) remains unclear.

Ballack persisted: “What do you mean by trying to keep him? He has a contract, and you hold all the cards. You can say yes or no. Is there a specific amount in mind that you are willing to negotiate?”

Rolfes avoided a direct answer and said: “The important thing is to convince Florian. This is not the first time he has received offers this year. Our goal is to convince him to stay with us.”

At this point, Lucas Schon-Muller, the show’s host, joked: “Michael Ballack, the investigative journalist, is testing everything!”

Fernando Carro, Leverkusen’s CEO, joined the discussion and stated that he sees a 50-50 chance of Wirtz staying or leaving. He added: “Regarding Florian, what matters is that whether he stays or goes elsewhere, everyone should be satisfied with the decision. We communicate with transparency and honesty to reach a solution that everyone can accept.”

Schon-Muller asked Ballack: “Michael, are you satisfied, or are you going to keep asking questions?” Ballack replied: “Everything seems very informal. This is Leverkusen’s style, and it’s commendable. But ultimately, it’s about a lot of money. I played here myself and know the people in charge. Fernando is right. If Florian stays another year, he must be fully convinced. Leverkusen wants the same, otherwise it doesn’t make sense. However, negotiations always involve a lot of money and risk. We see that Leverkusen is looking for a reasonable solution.” The discussion then shifted to Jonathan Tah’s free transfer next summer, and the interview concluded shortly afterward.