Liverpool’s marquee summer signing Florian Wirtz is under increasing scrutiny after a string of underwhelming performances for both club and country. Despite his hefty £100 million price tag and immense potential, the German international has yet to make a real impact in a red shirt—and tensions boiled over during his latest international outing. Now, questions are being asked: was the investment worth it?
Wirtz Faces Fan Fury on International Duty
Wirtz’s most recent appearance came with the German national team, where he featured for the full 90 minutes in victories over Luxembourg and Northern Ireland during World Cup qualifiers. But it wasn’t his football that made headlines—it was the reaction from the crowd.
At Windsor Park, Wirtz was subjected to boos every time he touched the ball, largely stemming from two questionable falls, one inside the penalty area and another just outside. Neither incident resulted in a foul, and both were viewed as theatrical by the home fans, souring their perception of the young playmaker.
Club Concerns Mount as Wirtz Struggles to Deliver
Back at Liverpool, Wirtz’s struggles are no less apparent. Since providing an assist in the Community Shield, the 22-year-old has failed to register a single goal or assist in competitive play. His form has come under fire during Liverpool’s poor recent run, which includes three consecutive losses.
Former Premier League defender Joleon Lescott didn’t hold back in his criticism. Speaking on In The Mixer, he questioned Wirtz’s impact and suggested Liverpool might consider cutting their losses if given the chance.
“If Liverpool could get their money back at the end of the season, they would do it,” Lescott said. “He’s yet to have a defining moment. As an attacking player, you’ve got to be the difference-maker. I haven’t seen that from him yet.”
Lescott referenced the match against Burnley as a turning point where Wirtz should’ve stepped up—but didn’t.
Klopp Defends His Young Star
Despite growing external pressure, Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp remains firmly in Wirtz’s corner. The German manager downplayed the criticism and urged patience, calling the reaction “blown out of proportion.”
“Florian Wirtz has outstanding quality. There’s no question about that,” Klopp told reporters. “Liverpool has just lost a few games, which naturally sparks debate, but it doesn’t change our belief in him. He’s in a stable environment, and we’re confident he’ll come good.”
Klopp’s message was clear: don’t panic. He believes Wirtz’s talent will shine through in time and that the young midfielder simply needs a bit more support and space to grow into his role at Anfield.
Key Fixture Ahead: A Crucial Test Against United
Wirtz won’t have to wait long to prove himself. Liverpool are set to face arch-rivals Manchester United at Anfield this Sunday—a high-stakes clash that could serve as the perfect stage for the German to silence his critics.
With Klopp standing by him and fans eager for a spark, all eyes will be on Wirtz. A strong showing in this match could begin to justify the massive investment Liverpool made. But if the struggles continue, the murmurs about a “refund” won’t fade anytime soon.
