Florian Wirtz’s start at Liverpool has garnered mixed reviews following his high-profile transfer. The German midfielder was signed for £116 million, but his initial performances have led to criticism, notably from former England striker Wayne Rooney. Rooney noted that while Wirtz possesses talent, he has struggled to balance his integration into the team.
Wirtz’s Early Struggles at Liverpool
In his first nine matches, Wirtz has yet to score and has provided only one assist, which came during a Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace. This slow start has raised questions about his place within the squad’s evolving dynamics under manager Arne Slot.
Shifts in Tactical Approach
Liverpool is undergoing tactical changes this season. Manager Arne Slot has altered the team’s style, emphasizing a fluid, rotation-based approach. This shift, alongside the absence of key player Trent Alexander-Arnold, has impacted team cohesion and balance.
Wirtz is expected to be a central attacking force, yet he often finds himself playing deeper than his usual position. His role requires him to assist in build-up play rather than capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities. This adjustment has limited his visibility in front of the net.
Key Tactical Observations
- Deeper Receiving Position: Wirtz often receives the ball farther from the goal, impacting his scoring chances.
- Passing Quality Gaps: Liverpool has struggled to find players further up the pitch as effectively as they did previously.
- Pressure Adaptation: Wirtz faces increased pressure and less space in the Premier League, making it challenging for him to perform.
Physical Demands and Intensity
Another factor in Wirtz’s performance is the high-intensity demand of the Premier League. So far, he has covered significant ground, ranking fifth for distance covered among players with over 400 minutes played. His extraordinary work rate, however, may contribute to fatigue, which impacts his technique during critical moments in matches.
He mentioned that this high running intensity affects his performances, suggesting he needs to adapt to these new demands. As he becomes fitter and more accustomed to Liverpool’s style, he might perform at his best.
Potential Solutions for Improvement
To maximize Wirtz’s potential, Liverpool could benefit from positioning him in ways that capitalized on his strengths. By pairing him with industrious midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai or allowing him to play wider initially, the team can create situations that enable Wirtz to exploit defensive gaps more effectively.
Ultimately, the team’s growth and Wirtz’s adaptation will take time. Liverpool is hopeful that, as players establish chemistry and refine their roles, Wirtz will find a rhythm that showcases his talents. The challenge will be overcoming external pressures and optimizing team dynamics to elevate his contributions to the squad.
