Tottenham Hotspur v Villarreal CF - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 Gabby Logan, TV Sports presenter, Wayne Rooney, Football Pundit, Thomas Frank, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur and Dimitar Berbatov Football pundit on the ptch before the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal CF at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 16, 2025 in London, England. London Tottenham Hotspur Stadium England United Kingdom PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK Copyright: xNigelxFrench/Sportsphoto/APLx 14135020
Florian Wirtz isn’t living the best of his life on the Isles. The German midfielder has struggled to find the back of the net since arriving at Anfield.
Liverpool made a big statement in the summer transfer window when they paid £116m to sign Wirtz. Having become the most wanted midfielder in the market, the Reds had to break the British record to bring him to Anfield.
Despite Alexander Isak breaking the record next, as the Merseysiders were willing to transfer £125m to Newcastle United’s account, the pressure remains on Wirtz to prove his worth.
Florian hasn’t scored a single goal across all competitions and has managed only one assist, which came in the FA Community Shield that Liverpool eventually lost.
Arne Slot has also substituted him multiple times across his eight appearances. The German midfielder didn’t even start the Merseyside derby, which the Reds ended up winning.
Florian Wirtz Liverpool transfer not successful, claims Wayne Rooney
Following his current form, many have questioned the viability of the transfer. Manchester United and English national team legend Wayne Rooney has asked similar questions.
“I think he’s played okay, but when you sign so many players like Liverpool have, and they’ve signed basically a whole new front line while also having Mo Salah there as well, then they’re all competing.”
“And I think Wirtz, he’s the one who’s probably not doing as well. He’s got so much ability, but for me, I don’t see where he gets into the team.”
“It was a lot of money, and I think Wirtz actually damages the balance of Liverpool, how they play. But he’s a top player, and I’m sure he will get better, of course, he will. But he’s had a slow start, and I think there’s no denying that.”
“I’ve seen players come into this league, and it takes time. For me, it’s not the price tag, it’s not the player and his ability. I don’t see where he fits into what Liverpool do in that system.”
Quiz: Can you name these 10 Liverpool players from the 2000s?
Rooney prefers Szoboszlai over Wirtz
Rooney didn’t stop at the fit aspect but also said he prefers Dominik Szoboszlai over Florian Wirtz, considering Liverpool’s play style.
“So, is he a third midfield player? For me, no, he’s more of an attacking player. So if I have to choose between him and Szoboszlai, then I choose Szoboszlai.”
About the Author
