Gary Lineker Supports Florian Wirtz Despite Slow Liverpool Start
Florian Wirtz has experienced a sluggish beginning to his Liverpool career, but Gary Lineker has expressed confidence in the German international's potential to succeed at Anfield. Lineker emphasized that Wirtz “is really good at football” and believes the midfielder has previously shown enough promise to justify the club’s faith in him.
Liverpool’s Record Signing
The Reds began their summer transfer window by signing Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth a then-British record £116 million. Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Wirtz has yet to score or assist in Premier League matches. He was also an unused substitute in Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Pressure and Expectations
The 22-year-old is now facing growing scrutiny, but both Lineker and Micah Richards remain optimistic about his prospects. Richards praised Wirtz’s skills and supported Liverpool’s investment, acknowledging the challenges but standing by the decision to sign the player.
“At the moment he is not up to speed for the Premier League, but he spent £100m on him, but 100% it was the right decision that he made,” Richards said on the Rest is Football podcast.
He also noted the club’s recent losses and the impact of losing key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold.
“Liverpool now go back to what they did last season.”
Lineker’s Verdict
The former Match of the Day host described Wirtz as an “exceptional” talent who will likely grow into a success at Liverpool when fully adapted.
Author's summary: Despite a slow start and heavy transfer fee, experts including Gary Lineker express confidence that Florian Wirtz will become a vital player for Liverpool as he adapts to the Premier League.