Jurgen Klopp defends struggling Liverpool star Florian Wirtz
Florian WirtzJurgen Klopp has launched a passionate defence of Liverpool playmaker Florian Wirtz, admitting the German national side had to call him up ahead of schedule.
The German national team boss, who took over the reins during the summer, spoke out as debate intensifies over the form of the £116 million midfielder.
Wirtz has endured a quiet start to the season on Merseyside, failing to score in his six appearances so far.
Despite his quiet output, Klopp remains convinced of the playmaker’s quality. The former Anfield manager pointed to the incredibly difficult circumstances surrounding the player’s arrival in England last year.
A tragic backdrop to Anfield arrival
Wirtz made his big-money move to Merseyside in 2025. However, his arrival coincided with a period of immense grief for the club following the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota.
According to Klopp, this devastating event naturally shifted the focus of the entire squad away from the pitch.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Klopp said:
“When you look at the overall context, Flo joined Liverpool at a very unfortunate time.”
Explaining the atmosphere at Anfield when Wirtz arrived, Klopp added:
“It’s about the passing of Diogo Jota. He joined a team with the players whose priority was not football at that time, which is very understandable.”
The 23-year-old had to navigate a challenging debut campaign amidst those emotional circumstances. Now, he is working under a new regime at Anfield following a change in the dugout.
Adapting to life under Andoni Iraola
This season has brought fresh tactical demands for Wirtz under the guidance of new Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola. The Spaniard has predominantly deployed the German international in a central attacking midfield role.
Wirtz is tasked with pulling the strings behind £125 million striker Alexander Isak, who has already netted four Premier League goals this term.
While Wirtz has started every game, he has only managed a single assist and has yet to open his goalscoring account.
Yet Klopp is adamant that the physical condition of the playmaker is strong and that the team around him is beginning to gel.
Discussing the midfielder’s undeniable talent, Klopp said:
“Everyone who loves football can still see what an outstanding player Flo Wirtz is. His footballing ability is beyond any doubt.”
The Germany manager believes that creative players are heavily reliant on a stable, functioning system to showcase their best work. He remains confident that the midfielder is on the right path to success.
An unexpected international call-up
Wirtz is currently away on international duty during an extended September and October international break.
Klopp originally named a massive 44-man pool, split into two separate 22-man squads, with Wirtz initially designated for the second group.
However, injuries to Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala and Arsenal’s Kai Havertz forced Klopp to alter his plans.
With both players withdrawing from the camp, the manager had to fast-track Wirtz and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Jonathan Burkardt into the squad.
Germany began their Nations League campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands. They are now preparing for a double-header against Greece, alongside a home fixture against Serbia on Thursday.
Highlighting what the national team can offer the midfielder, Klopp explained:
“We cannot do more than what we are doing here, by giving him enough training and playing time.”
Klopp confirmed that Wirtz will start on the bench for Sunday’s clash with Greece. The national team boss hopes to rebuild the player’s confidence before sending him back to Merseyside.
