Liverpool's new manager insists Florian Wirtz's impact extends far beyond mere goal contributions, underscoring his vital role in the team's pressing system and overall play.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has openly voiced his unwavering support for Florian Wirtz, directly addressing and dismissing the growing criticism aimed at the Reds' midfielder. Wirtz has been a constant presence in the starting lineup under Iraola, featuring in all four of Liverpool's matches this season despite facing scrutiny over his early performances.
Since his significant £116 million move from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz endured a challenging initial season in English football. However, Iraola immediately identified the German international as his preferred starting number 10, positioning him behind a dynamic, evolving front three that includes new summer signings Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz, alongside the returning Alexander Isak and in-form Cody Gakpo.
Despite only registering one assist across these four starts, and a recent performance against Atletico Madrid drawing particular ire, Iraola remains thoroughly satisfied with Wirtz's contribution. The manager's clear verdict indicates a strong belief in the player's value, according to reporting by Mirror - Football.
Iraola Highlights Wirtz's Off-Ball Impact for Liverpool
Andoni Iraola firmly believes that Florian Wirtz’s performances should not be judged solely on goals or assists. The Liverpool boss specifically highlighted Wirtz's strong showing against Atletico Madrid, despite the criticism.
“He played very well against Atletico Madrid,” Iraola stated. “He helped us a lot, also he was very good on the ball and overall I was very happy with his performance.” While acknowledging a few misplaced passes in the second half against Ipswich, Iraola emphasized his general satisfaction.
The manager further elaborated on Wirtz's defensive contributions, noting, “He is a good player out of possession who helps us in our press. But he runs the same as the 10 of Arsenal, the 10 of (Manchester) City, the 10 of Fulham and more or less his stats are very similar to the number 10s other teams have.” This comparison underscores Wirtz's significant work rate among top-tier Premier League playmakers.
Why Goal Contributions Don't Tell the Full Story for Florian Wirtz
Iraola is convinced that Florian Wirtz has been unlucky not to have more direct goal contributions this season. He recalled a disallowed goal against Nottingham Forest and several missed opportunities by teammates following Wirtz’s excellent service.
“I agree (he has been unlucky),” Iraola added. “I remember the ‘goal’ he scored against Nottingham Forest, he could have had very good assists but we haven’t finished them.” This perspective shapes the manager’s holistic view of player evaluation.
The Liverpool boss stressed that relying purely on statistics can be misleading. “But that is why you cannot just play because of the numbers. Whether a striker scores a lot of goals or he doesn’t score a lot of goals, you have to look at the performances. Does he help us to play well? Yes,” Iraola explained. “Well, someone will score the goals and someone will give the assists. It is not that because you had the last touch, you played better than the other person.” Iraola prefers to focus on collective team play over individual metrics, stating, “I am not too focused about numbers. Nowadays everything is about numbers, everyone tells players you have to assist, you have to score goals. For me, you have to help us play well. Someone will score the goals if we are doing well collectively.”
Liverpool Legend Steven Gerrard Impressed by Wirtz's Contribution
Andoni Iraola isn't the only figure to come out in support of Florian Wirtz. Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard also expressed his admiration for the midfielder’s display against Atletico Madrid, particularly highlighting his improved creative output.
“His service has been a lot better tonight, he's been unlucky not to get an assist,” Gerrard commented. He recognized the pressure Wirtz has been under, adding, “And he deserves a break, he's been under pressure, he's got a lot of stick, a lot of criticism, but I've been impressed with him tonight.” Gerrard's endorsement further solidifies the belief within the club about Wirtz's underlying quality and potential to thrive at Anfield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Florian Wirtz facing criticism at Liverpool?
Florian Wirtz is facing criticism primarily due to his high transfer fee of £116 million from Bayer Leverkusen and a relatively slow start to his second season, registering only one assist in four games, despite being a regular starter under new manager Andoni Iraola.
How has Andoni Iraola defended Florian Wirtz?
Andoni Iraola has defended Florian Wirtz by emphasizing his contributions beyond goal statistics, highlighting his strong off-the-ball work, pressing, and overall influence on team play. Iraola believes Wirtz's impact is similar to other top number 10s in the Premier League and that he has been unlucky not to have more assists or goals.
What are Florian Wirtz's statistics this season under Iraola?
Under Andoni Iraola, Florian Wirtz has started all four of Liverpool's games this season across all competitions. In these matches, he has recorded one assist to his name, though Iraola notes he has been unlucky not to have more.
Who else has supported Florian Wirtz's performances?
Beyond Andoni Iraola, Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard has also publicly supported Florian Wirtz. Gerrard praised Wirtz's improved service and overall performance against Atletico Madrid, acknowledging the pressure and criticism the young midfielder has endured.