Florian Wirtz's difficulties at Liverpool have led Oliver Bierhoff to suggest a move to Barcelona would revive his best form. The 23-year-old joined the Reds in 2025 in a £116million deal but has yet to meet the high expectations placed on him.
Struggles at Anfield
The German international has faced criticism for a lack of consistency and end product, having scored just seven goals and provided 11 assists in 55 matches for his club. He has endured a slow start to his second season at Anfield, though he regained some confidence on international duty.
Wirtz scored and assisted in Germany's 2-0 win over Serbia last week, marking Jurgen Klopp's first victory in charge of the national team. The former Liverpool boss handed him the armband in the second half of that match before making him captain from kick-off in their 0-0 draw against Greece on Sunday.
Bierhoff's verdict
Despite the confidence instilled in him by Klopp, former Germany striker Bierhoff believes a change of scenery might be best for Wirtz. Speaking on the BILD program "Die Lage der Liga", the 58-year-old said: "He is an absolute world-class player who now needs to prove that once again.
"Specifically, on the pitch with his performances. With consistent performances and by making his mark." Wirtz has struggled to adapt to the lack of space afforded to him on the pitch – a worry Bierhoff said he wouldn't have to consider if reuniting with his former national boss, Hansi Flick.
The former Germany technical director explained: "I actually think he could play for several clubs. When he went to England – based on my assessment of him – I also said he wouldn't let it bother him just because it's a different country.
"So, I also believe he could be successful in other countries. I think he would be a good fit, for example, with Hansi Flick at Barcelona. He has space there, and he has fantastic teammates."
Return to Liverpool
Wirtz is set to return to Liverpool from international duty this week alongside Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Kostas Tsimikas and Lewis Koumas.
The Reds host Manchester City on Sunday in what will be the visitors' first game since they were found guilty of all but one of the 115 charges for breaching the Premier League's financial rules from 2009 to 2018.
