Liverpool must act to rescue Florian Wirtz as doubts mount

Liverpool shattered their transfer record in June 2025 by signing Bayer Leverkusen’s 23‑year‑old Florian Wirtz for £116 million, only for the benchmark to be eclipsed a few months later when Alexander Isak arrived from Bayern Munich for £125 million in a bid to rejuvenate the Reds’ attacking midfield.

Record‑breaking arrival

The Wirtz signing ignited massive excitement among Liverpool supporters, who had watched Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Real Madrid all vie for his signature. The club’s willingness to break the record underscored their ambition to add a creative No 10 to a squad that had finished sixth in the EPL.

Despite the fanfare, the German midfielder has struggled to make a significant impact, prompting new head coach Andoni Iraola to focus on restoring his best form, a point echoed by News analysis. At 23, Wirtz faces pressure to justify his price tag under Iraola’s tactical overhaul. His limited Stats reflect the struggle to influence games.

Strategic stance and Bayern interest

Club insiders confirm Liverpool have still no intention of selling Wirtz next season, even as Bayern Munich keep a close watch on his situation. The German giants remain ready to act should a transfer become viable, but the Reds are placing full trust in their investment.

Liverpool must add a second No 10 to unlock Wirtz’s magic

Former Liverpool midfielder Ray Houghton told Goal that the side could benefit from adding another No 10. “I think we could do with another one,” he said, adding that having two number‑10s would provide a safety net if one fails to deliver.

Calls for a second No 10

Houghton highlighted the current squad composition – two strikers, four wingers and two central midfielders – and argued that a second playmaker would add the needed magic. He praised the wider shape this season, pointing to Cody Gakpo, Victor Munoz, Rio Ngumoha and Bradley Barcola as options that could free up space for Wirtz in his preferred central role.

After Liverpool’s 1‑0 win at Bournemouth, pundit Jamie Carragher warned that Wirtz may never trouble Premier League opponents. “That was one of the poorest I’ve ever seen him in a Liverpool shirt,” he said, questioning whether the midfielder’s performances can ever bridge the gap between his fee and the club’s expectations.

If the Reds fail to boost Wirtz’s output, pressure will mount on Iraola to either secure a complementary No 10 or reconsider the midfielder’s future. Conversely, a resurgence could silence doubters and validate the £116 million gamble, while keeping Bayern’s interest at bay.