Klopp Breaks Silence on Liverpool's Shocking Decline and Wirtz's Surprising Struggles
Jürgen Klopp has urged Liverpool supporters not to be concerned about the team's current struggles or Florian Wirtz's challenging adaptation period at Anfield.
Arne Slot's Premier League title holders are currently experiencing a three-match losing run and face intense criticism following a summer spending spree that shattered Premier League transfer records twice, resulting in the most expensive transfer window ever recorded.
Germany midfielder Wirtz was among the high-profile signings at Anfield. Acquired from Bayer Leverkusen for £116 million ($154.7 million), the 22-year-old has yet to register a goal or assist in competitive matches and has delivered disappointing displays overall.
Nevertheless, Klopp remains confident about Wirtz, with the former Liverpool manager supporting what he considers a "generational talent" who will eventually succeed at the club.
"Regarding Florian Wirtz, I have zero concerns because his ability is exceptional," Klopp explained to Sport.
"The criticism is somewhat overblown. Liverpool has just suffered three consecutive defeats, which is uncommon. But that's part of football. That's why such topics become talking points. I've been involved in these debates long enough to say: Nothing matters less to people there than public opinion."
Providing guidance to Wirtz, Klopp continued: "Fundamentally, developing thicker skin never hurts, and that applies to Florian too. But he has solid support, and the club excels during challenging periods. So, for anyone concerned: There's no need to worry, you can relax. Everything will work out!"
Julian Nagelsmann: Wirtz Not Responsible for Poor Numbers
Wirtz's ongoing drought in goals and assists for Liverpool has drawn considerable attention, but Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann criticized those using numbers to attack the young playmaker and blamed his Liverpool colleagues for failing to support him adequately.
"Despite not finding the net, he remains the player generating the most opportunities in the Premier League," Nagelsmann emphasized.
"It's not his responsibility if his teammates fail to finish them, and the numbers don't reveal the complete picture."
However, a closer examination of Premier League statistics contradicts Nagelsmann's assertion. Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes actually tops the chance creation charts with 19, two more than Everton loanee Jack Grealish.
Liverpool colleague Cody Gakpo has registered 14 chances created, while Wirtz has managed only 11.