Julian Nagelsmann has publicly defended Florian Wirtz amid mounting criticism over the German playmaker’s slow start at Liverpool, insisting that much of the concern is premature and misses key factors affecting his adaptation to the Premier League.
Wirtz arrived at Anfield in the summer from Bayer Leverkusen in what became Liverpool’s record-breaking deal, reportedly worth around £100 million, potentially rising to £116 million in add-ons.
Expectations were high for the 22-year-old, who had been one of the most productive offensive midfielders in the Bundesliga, with a resume that included 57 goals and 65 assists in 197 appearances.
But as of October, Wirtz had yet to register a goal or assist in seven Premier League matches for the champions. With such a start, criticism was perhaps inevitable. In response, Nagelsmann, Germany’s coach, emphasised that while the end product may be lacking, Wirtz has been one of the standout creators in the league.
“Even though he hasn’t scored any goals, he is still the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League,” Nagelsmann told reporters after Germany’s 4-0 win over Luxembourg in a World Cup qualifier.
Nagelsmann went further: “It’s not his fault if his teammates don’t convert them, and the statistics don’t even tell the whole story.” He acknowledged that the transition for Wirtz has not been easy, noting that adapting to a new league, new club, and a heightened pace of play typically takes time. “He simply has to get used to the league. I’ve seen him feel completely liberated. He knows what he’s capable of and how things work. Not everything has always had it easy – he’ll have to work hard now, too.”
This defence follows earlier remarks by Nagelsmann in September, in which he described Wirtz as a “key player” for Germany but admitted that his influence at Liverpool had been modest so far. “It’s normal that you need a bit more time in a new culture, a new league, in a new stadium at a new club,” Nagelsmann said at that time.
Wirtz himself has also addressed the situation. He acknowledged disappointment at not finding goals or assists yet but emphasised patience and belief in his ability. “Of course I would have liked to have scored a goal,” Wirtz said, adding that he is staying calm, that he knows what he is capable of, and that the contributions will come sooner or later.
Liverpool’s slow start as a team has added to the scrutiny around Wirtz’s performances. Alongside him, other key figures like Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak have not fired on all cylinders. The Reds, despite heavy investment, have lost three consecutive games in all competitions in recent weeks, and their struggles converting possession into goals have been underlined in several matches.
Despite the pressure, Nagelsmann remains confident in Wirtz’s long-term prospects. He emphasises that the player’s creativity, ability to generate chances, and understanding of the game are evident. What is needed, Nagelsmann suggests, is adjustment and consistency. The coach believes that once Wirtz settles fully into his new environment, the goals and assists will follow.
For now, Nagelsmann has urged patience — both from Liverpool’s fanbase and the wider media. In his view, the broader context matters: the pressure of a massive transfer fee, the challenge of adapting to a different style of football, high expectations, and teammates needing to convert chances.