Florian Wirtz has admitted his debut campaign at Liverpool was difficult, but the German playmaker is convinced he can start to justify his £116m price tag under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
Difficult debut season
Wirtz became the club's most expensive player in June 2025 when he joined for an initial £100m plus £16m in add-ons, before Alexander Isak's £125m arrival on September 1. However, his first season at Anfield did not go to plan, with the team's form declining dramatically and the dressing room mourning the death of Diogo Jota in early July.
Despite early praise from German football figures like Jurgen Klinsmann, Philipp Lahm, and Jurgen Klopp, Wirtz only fleetingly looked the part. The intensity and physicality of English football threatened to overwhelm him at times, leading Liverpool to design a training regime to add muscle mass.
Learning and adapting
Speaking after the 3-2 loss to Monaco on Sunday, Wirtz said: "Of course there were some games when I wasn't happy with myself. But also a lot of games when I felt good on the pitch. Last season was difficult for the whole club but hopefully we have the right energy and mentality this season, so every player can shine more."
He registered seven goals and eight assists across 49 appearances in all competitions. Wirtz believes he has learned a lot from his first season: "I just learned how Premier League football is played and I think I am more ready for my second season because I know how it is now."
New role under Iraola
Iraola, who replaced Arne Slot in June, has confirmed he views Wirtz as the team's No.10. Wirtz confirmed the position has been discussed: "No.10 is my favourite and my best position, so let's see how this works out."
Wirtz is enjoying the new coach's ideas: "I like the idea of football he has, so I am really looking forward to it."
Partnership with Isak
The partnership of Isak and Wirtz, who cost £241m combined, must flourish for Liverpool to improve. With Hugo Ekitike sidelined with a ruptured Achilles, the duo have scored three times in 105 minutes of pre-season football together.
Wirtz said: "I think today and also in the last game against Leeds, we had some good combinations. Also we created some chances together. He is a very, very good player and I enjoy playing with him. We have to work on the connection but we are still in pre-season and I think until now it is good."
