Florian Wirtz’s blockbuster switch to Liverpool was one of the biggest talking points of the summer, with the Premier League giants reportedly splashing out close to €150 million to secure his services from Bayer Leverkusen.
But just three weeks into his Anfield journey, the 21-year-old playmaker is still searching for his rhythm in England.
Former Bundesliga forward Marek Mintal believes patience is needed, even though he admits Wirtz has looked unsettled in his early outings. Speaking to ran.de, the ex-Nürnberg striker remarked:
> “When I watched Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Newcastle, Wirtz didn’t look like himself. He seemed lost at times, but that’s part of the adaptation process.”
Mintal also highlighted the unique pressure that comes with wearing Liverpool red:
> “This isn’t Leverkusen. At a club of Liverpool’s size, with that kind of transfer fee, fans want instant impact. Unfortunately, time to adapt is a luxury rarely granted here. But that’s exactly what young players need.”
Adding to his challenges, Wirtz has been battling the physical demands of English football. In last weekend’s narrow 1-0 victory over Arsenal, he had to be withdrawn early due to cramps.
Manager Arne Slot downplayed concerns, joking after the match:
> “It wasn’t an injury – it was simply his ‘welcome to the Premier League’ moment.”
Wirtz’s Liverpool career is only just beginning, but already the debate has started: can the German wonderkid rise to the expectations and silence the doubters?
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