Iraola urges Liverpool to axe costly flop Wirtz IMMEDIATELY

Andoni Iraola demanded an IMMEDIATELY‑driven response after Liverpool’s dismal 0‑0 home draw with Fulham on Saturday, urging that German forward Florian Wirtz be axed straight away as the Reds’ lack of spark fuels doubts over his £116 million investment for the future.

The Reds failed to create any clear chances throughout Saturday’s clash, and Alvaro Arbeloa’s return to Anfield did little to lift the side. Fulham’s manager collected his first point in charge as the Cottagers secured a valuable draw. The hosts were kept very much at bay for the entire ninety minutes.

Iraola described the stalemate as a step back in the early days of his regime, noting that Liverpool have yet to taste defeat under his guidance. The two points dropped, he added, feel like a missed opportunity for a side eager to climb the table. He stressed the need for a spark to avoid further stagnation.

Wirtz under fire and possible exit

German forward Florian Wirtz, signed for £116 million, has recorded only one assist this season and a total of 18 goal contributions from 54 appearances since his move from Bayer Leverkusen two summers ago. Such numbers have intensified calls for him to be removed IMMEDIATELY from the starting line‑up. His tally of 18 goal contributions comprises seven goals and eleven assists.

European Cup winner Steve Nicol told that Wirtz is not part of his front four, recalling the German’s best performance came in a Champions League win over Atletico Madrid. Nicol argued that a single good display does not justify his continued selection in the Premier League. He also noted that Wirtz’s Champions League outings have been brighter than his Premier League displays.

Nicol suggested a reshuffle featuring Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai as the three most creative midfielders, with Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo completing the attack. He believes moving Szoboszlai into a more advanced No 10 role could unlock Isak’s shooting ability from distance. He adds that Szoboszlai’s creativity can create gaps for Isak to exploit, something Wirtz has struggled to provide.

Future options and European interest

Sources told TEAMtalk that Bayern Munich, a top European giant, remain keen on Wirtz and could move for him in 2027 should Liverpool decide to cash in. Meanwhile, rumours suggest Liverpool are prepared to break the British transfer record with a £130 million bid for a Brazil World Cup star. The Bayern interest is linked to a possible 2027 transfer window.

The club’s hierarchy still believes the German can fulfil his potential, but internal doubts grow as the season progresses. Iraola now faces the task of either revitalising Wirtz’s impact or reshaping his squad to avoid further points lost. His next challenge will be to decide whether to keep faith in Wirtz or pursue alternatives.