Arne Slot Reveals the Real Reason Behind Florian Wirtz's Sluggish Liverpool Start
Florian Wirtz has discussed his challenging Premier League debut with Liverpool boss Arne Slot, with the Dutch coach indicating that additional physical adjustment is required.
Liverpool invested £116 million ($155 million) to secure Wirtz as the Premier League's most costly signing this summer—a benchmark they surpassed weeks later with Alexander Isak's £125 million transfer from Newcastle United—yet they continue to await the exceptional performances he delivered at Bayer Leverkusen that warranted such an enormous fee.
Wirtz provided an assist during the Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace but remains without a goal contribution in Premier League action. The 22-year-old has maintained he isn't concerned about his sluggish beginning.
During a comprehensive interview with Sky Germany, Wirtz revealed details of a discussion with Slot, who provided his perspective on why the Germany star hasn't found his rhythm yet.
"It's possible that I'm attempting to distribute the ball more quickly," he explained. "I spoke with the manager recently about this, and he proposed reasons why I might not be reaching the positions I typically occupy. Specifically, that I'm accelerating play through dribbling or passing.
"He mentioned it could be due to our intense pressing and my extensive running. For instance, regarding distance covered: I consistently rank highest because I strive to work hard and fulfill the coach's demands. This requires significant strength and energy. When I receive possession, I might be somewhat depleted. He said it will develop gradually, as I feature in more matches, improve my fitness, execute actions more effortlessly, and then, upon receiving the ball, possess sufficient energy and recovery to perform intensely."
Bayern Chief: Wirtz Better Off Back in Bundesliga
Bayern Munich were shocked when Wirtz rejected their overtures in favor of joining Liverpool, having openly courted him as part of their strategy to construct Germany's most accomplished club around the nation's premier talents.
There were no questions regarding Wirtz's capabilities in the Bundesliga, and executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge contended the attacking midfielder would have been more content had he chosen to sign with Bayern instead.
"I must honestly admit, I still sympathize with Florian Wirtz because I believe the player would fare better at Bayern Munich than at Liverpool," Rummenigge told Welt, claiming that "financial excess" ultimately prevented them from securing his services.
Wirtz, meanwhile, emphasized he selected Liverpool due to the vision presented under Slot.
"I believed that Liverpool represents a family-centered organization," he stated. "However, naturally, what persuaded me most was the footballing element."