Liverpool’s £116million summer signing Florian Wirtz is still trying to find his footing in the Premier League, and former star Wayne Rooney has voiced concerns about the midfielder’s impact on the team.
The 22-year-old arrived with enormous expectations after a record-breaking transfer from Bayer Leverkusen, where he orchestrated play during their unbeaten 2023–24 Bundesliga title-winning season.
So far, Wirtz has struggled to replicate that level in England, leaving fans and pundits questioning how he fits into Liverpool’s star-studded squad.
Frustrating Performances in Key Matches
Wirtz was notably benched for the Merseyside derby at Anfield, which Liverpool edged 2-1 in a tense finish.
When he returned to the starting XI for the trip to Selhurst Park, the German midfielder endured another disappointing outing, missing a clear chance by shooting straight at Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson from five yards.
He was substituted in the 74th minute for Federico Chiesa as Liverpool searched for a winning goal.
Across all competitions this season, Wirtz has yet to register a goal or assist in eight appearances and has been taken off in every game he has started, raising doubts about the manager’s confidence in him.
Rooney Claims Wirtz Affects Liverpool’s Balance
Wayne Rooney has now added his voice to the discussion, suggesting that Wirtz may disrupt the team’s balance.
“It’s been tough for him, no doubt. He’ll be searching deep within himself to fix it,” Rooney said.
“Liverpool have signed a lot of players, basically a whole new front line, and with Mo Salah there as well, competition is fierce.Wirtz is probably not doing as well as the others.
He’s incredibly talented, but I don’t see where he fits in the team right now.”
Rooney emphasized that, while Wirtz is a top player, the crowded Liverpool attack may limit his opportunities, especially compared with players like Dominik Szoboszlai.
“I’ve seen players take time to adapt to this league. It’s not about the price tag or skill; it’s about where he fits in the system.
If I had to choose between Wirtz and Szoboszlai, I’d pick Szoboszlai,” Rooney added.
Wirtz Admits Adjustment Has Been Difficult
In a recent interview with Sky Germany, Wirtz acknowledged the challenges of settling into English football:
“Of course I would have liked to score goals or collect a few assists, but I’m staying cool.
I don’t want to constantly hear ‘give it time.’ I just focus on improving each game.
Sometimes things just aren’t going well, and that’s rare for me. Once I get through it, everything will be fine.”
The midfielder remains determined to overcome a slow start and show the quality that earned him his record transfer.
Champions League Presents a Chance for Redemption
Liverpool will face Galatasaray in their second Champions League group match on Tuesday, providing Wirtz with a golden opportunity to finally make a tangible impact.
Fans will be watching closely to see if the young German can translate his Bundesliga brilliance into Premier League success and quiet the critics.