Ibrahim Maza embraces Florian Wirtz comparisons as Leverkusen star targets trophies
‘I am still trying to follow my own path’
Ibrahim Maza is flattered by comparisons with Florian Wirtz, but the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder says he is focused on becoming his own player as he seeks to make the most of a promising start to the season.
The comparisons followed Maza’s skill in the build-up to Patrik Schick’s goal against Freiburg. Maza acknowledged the resemblance to a moment of Wirtz’s own against the same opposition, while making clear he considers the former Leverkusen star’s effort the better one.
“Flo is an incredible player, a real Bayer Leverkusen legend. I am still trying to follow my own path and be my own player,” Maza said. “I hope that one day I can play at his level and achieve that.”
Maza said he had seen the clips shared online and praised Wirtz’s contribution. “Honestly, I thought his was even more impressive. He also scored the goal himself. Mine was not bad either, though. Fortunately, Schick was there and scored it. But yes, Flo is Flo.”
Building a partnership with Schick
The 20-year-old said he is working to improve his output after feeling his previous season had been modest in terms of goals and assists. He believes he is making progress and wants to contribute more in both categories, while also sharpening the defensive side of his game.
He praised his developing understanding with Schick, describing it as special to play alongside a forward with so much experience. Maza said Schick helps him on the pitch and has an instinct for finding the right positions and making effective runs in the penalty area.
Although Maza feels most comfortable as a number 10 in Leverkusen’s 4-2-3-1 system, he said he is also willing to operate as an eight or a six, or on either flank. “I just want to do my thing wherever I play,” he said.
From Wittenau street football to the Bundesliga
Maza traced his development to Berlin, where informal games helped shape his competitive edge. He recalled a local pitch known as “Gösche”, where teams of four or five played short matches and the winners stayed on. Players had to queue for their turn, he said, and compete against opponents both older and younger than themselves.
His progress through Hertha Berlin’s academy was not straightforward. Maza said coaches sometimes considered him too short or too slim, and physically stronger players were often preferred. He eventually grew and developed physically while retaining the technical qualities he had built through constant football.
His father also played a significant role, training with him after regular sessions and recording his youth matches so they could review them together. Maza said the work was demanding but that his father’s commitment had helped him.
Silverware ambitions with club and country
Maza said Leverkusen entered the campaign aiming to win the UEFA Europa League and DFB Cup, while also qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. He described playing in Europe’s top club competition as a dream for every footballer and named winning the Champions League as his biggest personal ambition.
He also spoke of his pride in representing Algeria, saying he hopes to win the Africa Cup of Nations with the national team and wants the side to qualify for future World Cups and progress as far as possible.
Maza praised Leverkusen head coach Carles Martínez for his tactical work and passion, and noted that he shares a dressing room with Lucas Vázquez, a five-time Champions League winner. Maza said he and his teammates have already asked Vázquez plenty of questions about what it takes to lift the trophy.