Jamie Carragher urges Liverpool to bench Wirtz after Man City loss

Ryan Gravenberch’s controversial second‑half dismissal proved the decisive moment in Liverpool’s 3‑0 loss to Manchester City on Sunday at Anfield. The German midfielder’s red card left the Reds’ with ten men and sealed their first Premier League defeat of the season.

Wirtz’s muted showing at Anfield

Florian Wirtz struggled to influence the game, being substituted in the 66th minute after failing to make a significant impact against the Premier League leaders. The 23‑year‑old German international recorded 46 touches, completed 20 of 24 passes and won only four duels, with a single off‑target shot and no clear‑cut chances. His lack of Premier League goals this season has intensified scrutiny on the £116 million summer signing.

Carragher’s call for change

Former defender Jamie Carragher then urged Liverpool to drop Wirtz from the starting XI, saying the club had given the £116 million signing enough chances. “The Florian Wirtz where he’s almost nailed on that he plays every week in that No. 10 position, it has to stop,” he told, adding that Andoni Iraola must now consider a change. Carragher argued Liverpool’s patience must run out if they are to secure more decisive attacking output.

The German’s domestic woes contrast with his recent form for the national side, where he scored against Serbia during the international break under Jurgen Klopp. Despite that, Wirtz has yet to find his first Premier League goal, leaving Andoni Iraola with a difficult decision on whether to persist with him in the No. 10 role.

Liverpool’s defeat leaves them trailing the Premier League leaders and heightens pressure on Andoni Iraola to deliver a more potent attack. Carragher’s criticism underscores the growing unease among supporters regarding the £116 million investment.

With the Reds’ now on a losing run after their opening victory, the loss to Manchester City could signal a challenging season if the club does not find a way to unlock Wirtz’s potential.