Andoni Iraola backs Florian Wirtz despite difficult start at Liverpool

Andoni Iraola has backed Florian Wirtz to improve after the German midfielder endured another difficult afternoon during Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

Wirtz started at the Vitality Stadium but struggled to consistently influence Liverpool’s attack before being substituted shortly after the 70-minute mark. He was involved in the build-up to Alexander Isak’s decisive goal, but his individual numbers remain modest.

Five Premier League appearances have produced just one assist for Liverpool’s No.7, although Iraola believes there were signs of improvement as Sunday’s game developed.

“It was a slow start, but after the first phase, Florian helped us to improve,” Iraola told Sky Sports.

The Liverpool manager was particularly encouraged by what he saw after half-time, adding that he was “much happier with his performance in the second half”.

Wirtz also experienced a slow beginning to last season, offering some context to his current form. However, Liverpool will want greater attacking output from a player expected to play an important creative role.

That applies to the team more broadly.

Liverpool have struggled to consistently create clear chances despite collecting nine points from Iraola’s opening five Premier League matches.

While the attack remains a work in progress, Liverpool’s defensive improvement is becoming increasingly important.

The Bournemouth victory represented a third consecutive Premier League clean sheet, with Iraola praising the solidity his players are beginning to demonstrate.

Ronald Araujo has established himself at right-back, while young Jeremy Jacquet has partnered Virgil van Dijk in central defence.

Van Dijk praised Jacquet’s early performances but stressed that Liverpool still have considerable room for improvement.

“Let’s all stay calm and keep working and not get ahead of ourselves,” the captain told Sky Sports.

That message also applies to Wirtz.

His attacking numbers are yet to reach the level Liverpool will expect, but Iraola appears prepared to give the German time to rediscover his influence as his new-look side continues to develop.

The international break gives Wirtz an opportunity to reset before Liverpool enter what Van Dijk described as a particularly intense period.

Iraola will hope Liverpool can maintain their new defensive solidity while finding greater creativity in attack, with improved production from Wirtz potentially central to that development.