Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann has delivered a clear message to Liverpool about how they can get the best out of new signing Florian Wirtz — and it’s not just about tactics.
The young German playmaker has endured a tricky start to life at Anfield following his big-money summer move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite high expectations, Wirtz is yet to record a goal or assist in the Premier League this season. But his German international manager believes the problem lies deeper than just personal form.
What Julian Nagelsmann said on Liverpool and Florian Wirtz situation
Nagelsmann came to Wirtz’s defense after the 22-year-old faced harsh criticism from pundits, including Gary Neville, who said the midfielder “looked like a little boy” during Liverpool’s 3–0 defeat to Manchester City.
“I always speak to Flo, regardless of his situation,” said Nagelsmann. “It’s a complex time for him and for Liverpool. They’ve lost players, signed new ones, and the team doesn’t look as stable as last year.”
Then came his blunt truth:
“Liverpool could also help him out by scoring some of the chances he creates. They somehow don’t like to shoot the ball in — that’s also part of the truth.”
The comment drew laughter from reporters, but it carried a serious point. Wirtz has been among Liverpool’s most creative players statistically, but his teammates’ poor finishing has left his efforts unrewarded.
Under pressure, but not out of form
While the headlines may focus on his lack of goals, Nagelsmann insists Wirtz is still producing quality performances beneath the surface.
“We can’t expect him to perform at the same level every year,” the Germany coach added. “He just needs support and patience. It’s not easy for a young player to adapt when the club itself is going through changes.”
Liverpool fans have seen flashes of his talent — particularly in the 1–0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League — but the consistency hasn’t followed in the league.
Manager Arne Slot has tried using Wirtz both centrally and on the left wing, searching for the right balance in a team still finding its rhythm.
Is patience running thin?
Some critics, like Neville, believe time is running out. “He’s £100m+, and you can’t hide behind that forever,” said the Sky Sports pundit. “He’s got quality, but he needs to show it in games that matter.”
Still, the fixture list could give Wirtz a break. Liverpool face a run of favorable matches against West Ham, Leeds, and Wolves, many of them at Anfield — a perfect chance for the German star to turn his numbers into real results.
Florian Wirtz for Liverpool in Premier League 2025/26 so far
(Source: Sky Sports)
| Category | Statistic | Rank (All Positions) |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 0 | 157th |
| Assists | 0 | 141st |
| Expected Assists (xA) | 1.19 | 39th |
| Chances Created | 16 | 16th |
| Big Chances Created | 1 | 87th |
Despite no direct goal involvement, Wirtz ranks 16th in the league for chances created, proving he’s pulling the creative strings — even if the final touch is missing.
Liverpool fans may joke that Wirtz “could assist only if someone finishes,” but Nagelsmann’s message is simple — trust the talent, fix the finishing, and the goals will follow.