Florian Wirtz Liverpool form has come under fresh scrutiny following the Reds’ back-to-back defeats against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. The 22-year-old playmaker, signed in a high-profile move from Bayer Leverkusen this summer, is still waiting for his first competitive goal or assist in a Liverpool shirt.
Jamie Carragher sparked debate earlier this week by suggesting Wirtz should be dropped for upcoming fixtures, a claim that made headlines across Europe. But while the English media have so far been relatively lenient with their criticism, the German press has stepped up to defend one of their brightest talents.
Rudi Völler backs Wirtz to shine at Liverpool
Rudi Völler, now sports director of the German FA, told Bild that fans and pundits must remain patient:
“Florian shouldn’t let himself get carried away. I have no concerns about that: He’ll show the English what he’s made of. Florian is playing in a new league and a new club. These are normal adjustment problems. Almost every professional has them. I have no doubt that with his running and playing ability, he will make the breakthrough.” — Rudi Völler, via Bild
Völler’s backing is significant. Having been a player, manager and sporting director at Bayer Leverkusen, he knows Wirtz well and believes the midfielder will eventually meet expectations at Anfield. With a World Cup on the horizon, the German FA is keen to ensure their rising star finds confidence and consistency.
Wirtz’s Liverpool stats so far
| Stat (2025/26) | Florian Wirtz |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 9 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Community Shield | 1 assist vs Crystal Palace |
source: sofascore match data – 1 October 2025
The numbers underline the challenge. Wirtz is yet to deliver in competitive fixtures, with his only contribution coming in the Community Shield. Adjusting to the pace and physicality of the Premier League is proving difficult, but both Arne Slot and the German national team remain confident that his quality will eventually shine through.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William commented: “It is still early days for Wirtz, but in England patience is often short. Carragher’s comments reflect the pressure that comes with being a marquee signing. Völler’s words of encouragement are timely, reminding everyone that adaptation takes time, even for top talents.”
He added: “If Liverpool want to keep pace with Arsenal and Manchester City, they need Wirtz to settle quickly. Slot will need to balance easing him in with the demands of immediate results.”
Key insights
- Florian Wirtz has yet to score or assist in 9 games for Liverpool.
- Jamie Carragher suggested he should be dropped after recent defeats.
- Rudi Völler insists he will “show the English” once he adjusts.
- German FA keen to see him confident before next year’s World Cup.
- His only contribution so far was an assist in the Community Shield.
What’s next for Wirtz and Liverpool?
Liverpool face Chelsea in the Premier League and Eintracht Frankfurt in Europe later this month. With Alisson Becker and Hugo Ekitike both sidelined, the pressure on Wirtz to step up in midfield creativity will be even greater.
The international break could come at just the right time. A spell with the Germany squad may restore Wirtz’s confidence and rhythm, giving him the reset he needs to deliver at Anfield.
👉 Will Florian Wirtz silence his critics and become Liverpool’s next big star, or will the pressure weigh him down?
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