Sophia
Liverpool’s record-breaking £116 million midfielder, Florian Wirtz, is still finding his footing in the Premier League, and manager Arne Slot believes he has identified the reasons behind the German international’s measured beginning.
Adapting to the Premier League’s Demands
Wirtz, who arrived from Bayer Leverkusen this summer in a deal that briefly made him the most expensive player in Premier League history, is yet to replicate the dazzling form that made him a Bundesliga sensation. While he registered an assist in the Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace, his first Premier League goal contribution remains elusive.
In a candid interview with Sky Germany, Wirtz revealed a recent conversation with Slot, where the Dutch manager offered insights into his adaptation period.
“It could be that I’m trying to pass the ball faster,” Wirtz explained. “I recently talked to the coach about it, and he suggested why I might not be able to get into the situations I normally get into. That is, that I’m making the game fast with a dribble or a pass.”
Slot’s assessment points to the intense physical demands of Liverpool’s system and the Premier League itself.
“He said it could be because we press a lot and I run a lot. For example, the running stats: I’m always at the top there because I try to push hard and do what the coach asks. I need a lot of strength and energy for that. When I have the ball, I might be lacking a little bit. That it will simply come step by step, as I play more games, get fitter, be able to do things more easily, and then, when I have the ball, be fit enough and recovered enough to push hard.”
This insight highlights the transition players often face when moving to a new league, particularly one as physically demanding as England’s top flight. Wirtz’s high work rate, while commendable, may be temporarily impacting his creative output in possession.
Bayern’s Regret and Wirtz’s Vision
Wirtz’s move to Anfield was a significant coup for Liverpool, especially considering the strong interest from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. Bayern board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge openly expressed his disappointment, suggesting Wirtz would have thrived at the Allianz Arena.
“I have to honestly say, I still feel sorry for Florian Wirtz because I think the player would be better off at Bayern Munich than at Liverpool,” Rummenigge told Welt, attributing Liverpool’s success in securing Wirtz to “financial madness.”
However, Wirtz maintains his decision was driven by the sporting project at Liverpool under Arne Slot, not just financial incentives.
“I had in mind that Liverpool is a family-oriented club,” he explained. “But of course, what convinced me most was the football aspect.”
Patience is Key for Liverpool and Wirtz
While the initial £116 million price tag brings immediate expectations, both Slot and Wirtz appear committed to a patient approach. The Premier League is renowned for its intensity, and even the most talented players often require time to adapt to its unique rhythm and physicality. As Wirtz continues to integrate into Liverpool’s high-pressing system and builds his match fitness, his undeniable quality is expected to shine through, justifying the significant investment made by the Reds.
