Wirtz’s Premier League Challenge: Support Amid Criticism

Florian Wirtz has encountered significant challenges in adapting to the Premier League since his transfer from the Bundesliga, marked by a hefty price tag of £116 million ($152 million). His performance has come under scrutiny as he has yet to record a goal or assist in his first 11 league appearances. Following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Manchester City last weekend, football pundit Gary Neville remarked that Wirtz appeared overwhelmed, describing him as looking like a “little boy” being “chucked around the pitch.”

Neville emphasized the necessity for the club to continue supporting the Germany international, urging him to “stand up soon.” Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand suggested on his YouTube channel that Wirtz’s absence from crucial matches may have instilled “huge doubts” about his decision to join Liverpool. Conversely, Wayne Rooney has expressed concerns that Wirtz disrupts Liverpool’s balance, questioning his integration into the team, albeit acknowledging that players often require time to acclimatize.

In response to the criticism, Axel Hesse, a journalist from the German publication Bild, has come to Wirtz’s defense, articulating a bold prediction regarding his potential impact in the English league. Hesse asserted, “There’s no need to feel sorry for Wirtz. His quality and mentality are outstanding, and he remains largely unfazed by such comments, which often stem from a particular viewpoint.” He noted that critics like Rooney, Ferdinand, and Neville are former players of Liverpool’s rival, Manchester United, suggesting their motivations might be influenced by this rivalry.

Hesse further highlighted Wirtz’s caliber by stating, “He is among the players, alongside Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid, who have created the most chances in the Champions League this season, totaling 16.” He praised Wirtz’s contributions, pointing out his work rate, tackling, and ability to generate opportunities in the Premier League, despite the current struggles faced by Liverpool’s attack, particularly noting the performance of striker Mo Salah. “The fact that he is not performing to the heights of his previous form at Leverkusen is mainly due to his teammates’ inability to convert the chances he creates,” Hesse explained.

The underlying issue, as indicated by Hesse, is that the English champions are yet to function cohesively as a unit, evidenced by their eight-point deficit to Premier League leaders Arsenal. Wirtz is seen as a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s ambitions for future titles, much like his role in leading Germany into World Cup qualifiers. “There is no question that he is viewed as a leader and the face of the future for Liverpool,” Hesse stated, acknowledging the understandable criticism linked to his significant transfer fee.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has also come to Wirtz’s defense amidst recent claims from former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who suggested that Wirtz had “destroyed” Liverpool’s midfield. Slot articulated, “If I require open-heart surgery, I won’t instruct the surgeon on how to operate. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, particularly in football where discussions are abundant. However, it’s essential to recognize that while many have perspectives, the intricacies of the game go beyond opinion.”