Florian Wirtz has yet to make a significant impact for Liverpool after four Premier League matches, prompting questions about his adaptation to the intensity of English top-flight football. The 23-year-old German midfielder was signed for around £100 million and installed firmly as the team’s central playmaker under manager Andoni Iraola, who has built his attacking strategy around him. However, Wirtz has so far failed to register any goals or assists in the league this season.
Wirtz’s struggles have reignited debate over whether he is suited to playing as a No. 10 in the Premier League, a role he frequently occupied at Bayer Leverkusen and with the German national team. Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot had expressed doubts about Wirtz’s physicality and ability to cope with the fast pace and physical demands of England’s top division. Early signs appear to support those concerns, with Wirtz’s influence in matches appearing limited despite a relatively high number of touches during recent games.
In Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Fulham, Wirtz was involved with 69 touches but was unable to create any decisive opportunities for teammates Alexander Isak and Bradley Barcola. Both of these forwards have depended on Wirtz’s service to maximize their contributions. Isak, the club’s £130 million striker, logged only 16 touches, while Barcola was substituted before the end of the match after a subdued performance. The trio has yet to establish the threatening partnership Iraola envisions.
Iraola defended Wirtz and his attacking unit, citing the short recovery time—less than 70 hours—between the fixture against Fulham and a previous Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid. The manager emphasized patience, but some supporters have expressed frustration with the lackluster and often careless style displayed by Wirtz, who wears Liverpool’s iconic No. 7 shirt.
Alexis Mac Allister was the standout performer for Liverpool against Fulham, injecting energy after coming on as a substitute. The Argentine’s aggressive style contrasts with Wirtz’s more subdued approach. Mac Allister also remains unsettled amid ongoing contract talks, something that could influence his future role at the club.
Fulham’s new manager Alvaro Arbeloa praised his team’s performance despite settling for a draw. The former Liverpool defender highlighted the importance of accumulating points over stylistic considerations as he continues to develop his squad in the Premier League.
As the season progresses, Liverpool face mounting pressure to optimize their attacking options, with Wirtz’s role and performance under close scrutiny. Whether Iraola’s faith in the German playmaker will translate into improved outputs remains an open question.