Wayne Rooney Slams Liverpool’s “Mistake Sale” as Wirtz Faces Fan Backlash
Wayne Rooney has waded into Liverpool’s current crisis with a stinging assessment of the club’s summer transfer business. Speaking after the Reds’ 1-0 defeat to Galatasaray, the Manchester United legend questioned Arne Slot’s decisions, insisting that selling Luis Díaz to fund the arrival of Florian Wirtz has left the team unbalanced.
Rooney’s Brutal Verdict
“I would have gone for Ekitike and Isak,” Rooney said. “This player actually damages the balance of Liverpool, the way they play. He’s a top talent and will get better with time, but it’s been a very slow start. Truth be told, Liverpool are suffering from a mistake sale. They should never have let Luis Díaz go just to sign this flop Wirtz—because Díaz brought balance to the team.”
A Disruptive Sale?
Rooney’s words cut deep into a debate already raging among fans and pundits. Díaz’s energy, pressing, and direct play had become vital to Liverpool’s attacking identity. His departure, and Wirtz’s difficult adaptation to English football, has arguably upset the natural rhythm that once made Slot’s side so dangerous.
Instead of sparking creativity, the German midfielder has found it hard to impose himself in key games, with Rooney claiming his presence has disrupted rather than improved Liverpool’s midfield.
Fans Vent Frustration
Supporters were quick to echo Rooney’s sentiments online. Many believe Wirtz should be dropped for the upcoming clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge:
- “Please, he shouldn’t start against Chelsea.”
- “Wirtz is a flop, Díaz never should’ve been sold.”
- “We’re paying the price for a mistake sale.”
Slot Under Pressure
For Slot, the challenge is becoming more urgent. With consecutive defeats piling pressure and a huge test against Chelsea looming, his selection choices will be scrutinised heavily. Wirtz is seen as a long-term investment, but patience is wearing thin.
Conclusion
Rooney’s comments have added fuel to an already heated debate around Liverpool’s transfer strategy. The decision to sell Díaz and gamble on Wirtz is starting to look costly, both in terms of results and team chemistry. Unless Wirtz quickly finds form, Slot could be forced into big calls to steady the ship—and avoid the crisis deepening further.
