German media have come out swinging in defence of Florian Wirtz, with BILD journalist Axel Hesse accusing English pundits — particularly those linked to Manchester United — of having “no clue” about the Liverpool midfielder’s quality or mentality.
In a fiery column titled “Dear England…”, BILD dismissed the growing criticism surrounding Wirtz’s performances since his €140m summer move from Bayer Leverkusen, insisting the 22-year-old is already showing signs of becoming the Premier League’s next superstar.
“He doesn’t need your sympathy”
Hesse wrote that while some fans and pundits might feel sorry for Wirtz after a difficult adaptation period, pity is both misplaced and unnecessary.
“Those who don’t know Wirtz might feel sorry for him. But that’s pointless,” Hesse said. “He’s become a doormat for English pundits — but he doesn’t need sympathy. The criticism comes from Manchester United’s former players like Rooney, Ferdinand, and Neville. They have a pro-Manchester United agenda.” — Axel Hesse, BILD
The German journalist accused the ex-United trio of bias against Liverpool and of failing to understand Wirtz’s game. He went further, claiming their analysis ignores data showing the midfielder’s true contribution.
“Either they dislike Liverpool because of the €140m transfer, or they simply have no clue about what kind of player he is,” Hesse added. “The numbers contradict their opinions.”
“Soon to be the biggest attraction in your league”
BILD highlighted Wirtz’s impressive creative metrics, noting that only Kylian Mbappé has produced more chances in this season’s Champions League. The report also stressed that Wirtz was “the best player on the pitch” in Liverpool’s 2–2 draw with Real Madrid, citing his work rate, passing, and off-ball intensity as indicators of elite quality.
The column concluded with a confident message to English audiences:
“Dear England experts, Florian Wirtz is not only our best player — but soon to be the biggest attraction in your league!” — BILD / Axel Hesse
Another dig at Salah and Liverpool’s struggles
In typical BILD fashion, Hesse couldn’t resist reigniting his previous criticism of Mohamed Salah, suggesting that Liverpool’s issues are contributing to Wirtz’s underwhelming output rather than the player himself.
He referenced a missed “mega-chance” Salah squandered from a Wirtz assist against Chelsea earlier in the season, claiming that such moments have unfairly skewed the perception of the German’s performances.
“If Salah had taken that chance, the narrative would be very different,” Hesse wrote. “Liverpool’s lack of cohesion as a team is the real problem — and it’s affecting Wirtz directly.”
The report described Wirtz as a “leader and face of the future” for Liverpool, arguing that the criticism he faces is disproportionate compared to other big-money signings in the Premier League.
The stats tell a different story
Despite the ongoing debate around his adaptation, Wirtz’s underlying numbers remain strong. His creativity and work rate have stood out, even if the goals have yet to follow.
| Stat (2025/26 Season) | Florian Wirtz |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 16 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Chances Created | 38 |
| Key Passes (per game) | 2.1 |
| Distance Covered (per game) | 11.4 km |
| Successful Tackles | 18 |
source: Transfermarkt data – 11 November 2025
The figures reinforce BILD’s argument that Wirtz is doing everything but scoring. His pressing, creative passing, and stamina all remain exceptional — even as Liverpool struggle collectively under Arne Slot.
United pundits in the firing line
Hesse’s attack on English punditry singled out Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, and Gary Neville for what he called “lazy narratives” about Wirtz’s form. BILD suggested the trio’s criticism was less about analysis and more about “a cultural misunderstanding” of how elite playmakers operate.
“Their commentary says more about them than Wirtz,” the column stated. “He’s not struggling — he’s adapting. The difference is subtle, but it’s everything.”
Our view: Wirtz’s class will show with time
FootballPlace agrees that Wirtz has been unfairly scapegoated for Liverpool’s form. “His performances have been better than the headlines suggest,” he said. “He’s one of the few Liverpool players consistently creating and pressing at a high level. Once the system clicks, the goals will come.”
“Liverpool’s transitional season under Slot has made life harder for creative players. But Wirtz’s mentality is elite — and that’s why Germany are right to back him.”
Key Insights
- BILD and Axel Hesse defend Florian Wirtz, calling out Manchester United-linked pundits.
- Claims Liverpool’s team structure — not Wirtz — is to blame for recent struggles.
- Only Kylian Mbappé has created more chances in the Champions League.
- Hesse again takes aim at Mohamed Salah, saying missed chances distort perceptions.
- BILD insists Wirtz will become the Premier League’s “biggest attraction.”
What’s Next for Wirtz and Liverpool?
Liverpool head into the international break reeling from a heavy defeat to Manchester City, with pressure mounting on Arne Slot to rediscover rhythm and consistency. For Wirtz, the next stretch of fixtures offers an opportunity to silence critics with performances that match his elite reputation.
As BILD’s closing line made clear, Germany still believes:
“Dear England — you may criticise him now, but you’ll soon see he’s the future face of your league.”
👉 Can Florian Wirtz turn Liverpool’s season around — and prove his German defenders right?
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