Wirtz was linked with a move to German champions Bayern Munich but ultimately chose to join Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in what was one of the biggest moves of the summer transfer window.
Bayern cannot compete
The German international completed a £116M transfer to the Reds in June and has since impressed fans despite his lack of goal contributions. Many speculated about his future as Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich held meetings with him, but ultimately, he wanted to play in the Premier League.
Speaking to Bild, Ballack was asked about his former club failing to sign both Wirtz and striker Nick Woltemade and revealed that it is because the Bundesliga is slowly going downhill.
"Of course, English clubs pay insane amounts,” Ballack told Bild when asked about his former club failing to sign both Wirtz and striker Nick Woltemade. “But even for Wirtz, Bayern were prepared to put together a package worth up to €100M.
“And as for Nick Woltemade: That's a different case. Bayern has a financial budget. The club has excelled for decades by staying out of debt and growing big.
“That's why I understand why Bayern decided not to pay more than €55 million for Woltemade. Because the player wasn't worth more to them.”
A move to Bayern, for many, seemed something of a no-brainer as the club could offer him a chance at consistent silverware as they cruise to league titles and challenge in domestic cups.
Lack of competition
However, Ballack believes this is no longer attractive to top players like Wirtz when he could be paid more in the Premier League and challenge for competitions that hold a lot more value.
“But fundamentally, I'm concerned about something else. Let's take Wirtz as an example: Does it make sense for him and his development to play in the Bundesliga for Bayern for another two or three years?
“Of course, he wins championships there. But is the Bundesliga still a challenge for him at the highest level?
“No, because the Bundesliga was overtaken by the Premier League years ago.
“That's the reality. That's why it's generally no longer as attractive for the absolute top players. That's why changes are needed."