Iraola backs Wirtz amid Liverpool criticism

Abdullateef Fowewe

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has defended Florian Wirtz amid growing criticism of the Germany midfielder’s form, insisting the playmaker’s performances for his country show his quality.

“He had good performances for the national team. He scored a goal. He will have better and worse games also here,” Iraola said.

The Spaniard urged patience and said Liverpool’s problems should not be reduced to one player, especially after a difficult run of results.

“I’d look at it more collectively and how we can play well and get results. It’s a more collective thing,” he added.

Iraola has previously maintained that Wirtz should not be judged solely on goals and assists, arguing that the midfielder’s value lies in how he helps Liverpool control matches and create opportunities for teammates.

Wirtz joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in a British-record deal reported at about £116m, with expectations that he would become the creative hub of the side.

However, his start to the season has come under scrutiny after he failed to score or provide an assist in his opening six appearances under Iraola, intensifying debate over whether he has adapted quickly enough to the Premier League.

The criticism followed Liverpool’s 3-0 home defeat to Manchester City, a result that also raised questions about the team’s overall structure and attacking output.

Wirtz responded during the international break by scoring and captaining Germany for the first time in a 2-0 Nations League win over Serbia, a performance Iraola appears to believe underlines the midfielder’s ability.