Florian Wirtz’s Liverpool Struggles: Inside the Challenges Behind His Slow Start at Anfield
Liverpool, October 2025 — Florian Wirtz’s difficult introduction to life at Liverpool has reached a pivotal stage, with fresh insights shedding light on why the German midfielder has yet to make the expected impact.
Signed amid huge anticipation, the 22-year-old arrived at Anfield tipped to become the creative heartbeat of Arne Slot’s new-look side. Yet after nine appearances, Wirtz remains without a goal or assist — a statistic that has intensified scrutiny following Liverpool’s run of three straight defeats.
Despite those numbers, Wirtz’s underlying data tells a different story. He has created 21 chances in the Premier League, more than any other player in the squad. However, poor finishing from Liverpool’s forwards has left his creative efforts unrewarded, prompting debate about whether his struggles stem from individual form or collective inefficiency.
Tactical Friction and Adjustment Issues
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has argued that Wirtz’s natural inclination to operate as a classic No. 10 may be unsettling Slot’s system. Others, though, suggest the issue lies in the lack of cohesion around him, as the team continues to adapt to the manager’s tactical demands.
The transition to the Premier League’s intensity and physicality has also posed challenges for the former Bayer Leverkusen star, who is still acclimatising to the faster tempo and defensive rigor of English football.
Support from Nagelsmann
Even on the international stage, Wirtz’s performances have come under the microscope. During Germany’s 4–0 win over Luxembourg, he drew criticism for missing a clear assist opportunity. National team coach Julian Nagelsmann quickly leapt to his defence, stressing that Wirtz’s struggles reflect a normal adaptation phase rather than a dip in quality.
“He’s still the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League,” Nagelsmann said. “It’s only a matter of time before his numbers match his performances.”
A Crucial Period Ahead
For both Wirtz and Liverpool, the international break could not have come at a better time. It offers the midfielder a brief respite and an opportunity to reset mentally before returning to Premier League action.
Still, expectations remain sky-high. Fans are eager to see the creativity and composure that made Wirtz one of Europe’s most coveted young playmakers. As pressure mounts and results demand improvement, the coming weeks may prove defining — not only for Wirtz’s confidence but for Liverpool’s season as a whole.
