Florian Wirtz has admitted feeling emotional after receiving a series of heart-warming video messages from family, friends, and former coaches during a difficult spell at Liverpool. The German midfielder, yet to register a goal or assist in the Premier League, has faced criticism as Arne Slot's side have struggled for consistency.
In a feature interview with Sky Sports, Wirtz watched clips celebrating his journey, including tributes from his parents, Karin and Hans, and his oldest friend, Ole Verhall. 'It's special and will always be special when you hear so many great things about yourself from people who you admire and respect so much,' he said. 'You feel directly that your heart is working.'
His mother expressed hope that he would master English, while his father wished for him to build strong bonds at Liverpool. Verhall told him: 'I'm really, really proud of you. I miss you and I'm really excited to see you again.'
Former coaches from his school and FC Koln youth system also offered words of encouragement. 'Stay as you are, keep your smiling and your cheeky way on the pitch,' urged Martin Heck. Bayer Leverkusen's Simon Rolfes, who sold Wirtz to Liverpool for £116m in the summer, echoed: 'Stay with this joy to play football.'
Liverpool head into Saturday's clash at Chelsea after consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray, but remain top of the table. Wirtz will hope the outpouring of support can help him rediscover his form.
