Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy is backing Florian Wirtz to become a major star at Anfield — though he cautions fans to be patient while the German adapts to life in the Premier League.
On Monday night, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot takes his side to St. James’ Park for a high-profile clash with Newcastle United. With the backdrop of ongoing transfer drama surrounding Alexander Isak, the Reds are set to face a hostile atmosphere and a typically combative Magpies side.
For Wirtz, Liverpool’s £116m record signing, it will be another test of his resilience after already facing the physical challenges of Crystal Palace and Bournemouth. Newcastle’s aggressive style — spearheaded by Joelinton — was key to their League Cup triumph over Liverpool last March.
Murphy, however, believes Wirtz is well-equipped to cope:
“He looks brave, I don’t think he’ll worry about making mistakes. He’s super fit, his work-rate is fantastic, and I don’t see the physicality of the Premier League being a problem. He will make a massive impact at the club, but people just need to give him time to settle.”
Before his move from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz produced an outstanding 57 goals and 65 assists in 197 appearances. He has already made his mark at Liverpool with an assist for Hugo Ekitike in the Community Shield win over Crystal Palace.
When asked about expectations, Murphy was direct:
“I’m expecting goals and assists. His vision is incredible — that can’t be coached, it’s instinct. For me, it’s a phenomenal signing. Yes, it’s big money, but Liverpool were always going to break the £100m barrier eventually. He’s worth it.”
Murphy also believes Wirtz offers Liverpool something different — a player in the mould of Philippe Coutinho, rather than the more workmanlike midfielders used in recent seasons:
“He’s more of a forward in that role, not just a midfielder. It’s a new dynamic for Liverpool, and I think he could be a game-changer.”
Meanwhile, transfer expert Florian Plettenberg reports that Alexander Isak has reached a verbal agreement in principle with Liverpool on a contract running until 2031, adding even more intrigue to Monday’s clash.
