Bundesliga to Premier League: Wirtz vs Simons, the Midfield Battle

As the 2025-26 Premier League season kicks off, two of the most high-profile midfield signings have crossed over from the Bundesliga – Florian Wirtz to Liverpool and Xavi Simons to Tottenham. 

Both arrive with reputations and big expectations, and fans will no doubt be watching closely and keeping an eye on the outright markets in England to see which of these German League standouts will make the biggest impact on English football.

Florian Wirtz to Liverpool

Liverpool pulled off a huge success this summer, signing German wunderkind Wirtz from Bayern Leverkusen in a deal reported to be over £100 million.

What he brings

• Creativity on and off the ball – he creates openings through intelligent runs and can press forward with purpose, which allowed him to score 18 goals and 19 assists in 49 games in 2023-24
• Position versatility – he can play in the number 10 position and as the sole attacking midfielder, as well as the left or right side of midfield
• Composure – he can position his body cleverly to shield the ball and link play when surrounded by defenders
• Big-game mentality – he has already shown he can perform when pressure is highest, delivering goals and assists in key Bundesliga and European fixtures

How he’s doing so far

The early opinions of Wirtz are mixed. Despite his talent and high expectations, Wirtz appears to be struggling with the pace of English football and hasn’t yet recorded a Premier League goal or assist in his first run of games, indicating he is not having a significant impact on the team’s performance. 

However, the German has received heavy praise from former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who described him as “an incredible talent and player.” He also warned fans, “You will eat your words if you use the wrong words with Florian Wirtz.”

Why he might surprise

If he begins to convert his high-quality chances, he could transform Liverpool’s attacking build-up. Given his flexibility and creativity, he could have the potential to change games in ways that others haven’t. If he settles and adapts quickly, the surprise won’t be that he was good, it will be how good he becomes.

Xavi Simons to Tottenham

Tottenham have strengthened significantly in midfield and attack thanks to the signing of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig for around £50 million.

What he brings

• Creative attacking presence – he has a proven record of both goals and assists from his time in Germany and the Netherlands
• Position versatility – he’s not just a number 10, he can play in the central role, wide, or deeper, depending on how the coach wants to use him
• Youth and experience – at only 22, he’s still young but has amassed a decent amount of top-level exposure, giving him real readiness as well as potential.

How he’s doing so far

Simons has made a promising start so far at Tottenham, showing creativity on debut with a key assist in a 3-0 win over West Ham. While he hasn’t yet matched the statistical output he achieved in the Bundesliga, he is steadily integrating into the team. He is showing glimpses of flair that made him a top prospect in Germany, and fans remain optimistic about his potential.

Why he might surprise

If he settles quickly, he has the capacity to become a key playmaker and one of Spurs’ most influential new signings. He just needs to translate his creativity and finishing ability into consistent Premier League performances, as his underlying stats suggest hidden potential.

—

Wirtz and Simons won’t face each other on the pitch until late December, meaning both have several months to settle into their new teams and the Premier League’s pace. 

When they finally meet, fans are in for a treat – two exciting young midfielders, full of energy and skill, turning their long-anticipated encounter into a true midfield showdown.