Germany Watch: Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz better than Chelsea’s Kai Havertz?

In a recent edition of Sport Bild, the publication broke down a comparison Bayer Leverkusen phenom and Chelsea FC star Kai Havertz at the same age.

Both are Germany internationals, both broke through with Bayer Leverkusen, and both have been linked to Bayern Munich.

“The speed with which Florian is developing is special.” said Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Völler. “Like Kai Havertz, he has options. He will also make his way.”

Sport Bild concluded that Wirtz is better than Havertz was at Wirtz’s current age. Here are the numbers:

In the Bundesliga (Wirtz) has made 40 appearances, Havertz started 30 times at the same age. Wirtz started 30 times, Havertz 18 times. Both have their greatest strength in the central, offensive midfield. What makes them different: Havertz is an elegant technician, Wirtz a dynamic driver.

Goals in the Bundesliga at the same age: Wirtz nine, Havertz four. Assists: both ten. Major chances converted: Wirtz 100 percent, Havertz 33.3. Tackles won: Wirtz 47 percent, Havertz 47.6. Outstanding stats. Distance run per 90 minutes: Wirtz 12.1 km, Havertz 11.7. Sprints per 90 minutes: Wirtz 29, Havertz 23.9. Top speed: Wirtz 33 km/h, Havertz 33.2.

Wirtz knows that a lot is expected of him — even at such young age.

“The coach expects me to go ahead. That I bring other players to a better level by pulling them along,” said Wirtz.

Völler, though, will not be drawn into any conversation comparing the two players. Instead, he is looking forward to seeing them playing together — for Germany.

“For us in Leverkusen it will be nice when Florian and Kai play double passes together in the national team in the future,” Völler said.