Addressing reporters on Wednesday, Merz emphasized that the state has never moved to prevent the merger or the acquisition. His comments aim to draw a clear distinction between market freedom and the government's ethical stance on how major financial institutions are approached. Berlin’s disapproval centers specifically on the methodology behind the bid rather than the final outcome of the deal itself.

By distancing the government from direct intervention, Merz avoids a protectionist narrative while maintaining political pressure on the parties involved. The Chancellor’s remarks suggest that while UniCredit remains free to navigate the acquisition, the friction caused by their initial strategy has left a lasting impression on German leadership.