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

Liverpool have confirmed they will keep German playmaker Florian Wirtz despite renewed interest from Bayern Munich, while pundits urge Andoni Iraola’s Reds to sign a second No 10 to add extra ‘magic’ to the squad. The 23‑year‑old arrived in the summer of 2025 for a £116 million fee after Liverpool out‑bid Bayern, Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Record signing and fierce competition

The £116 million deal made Wirtz Liverpool’s most expensive signing at the time, although the record was later broken by Alexander Isak’s £125 million arrival. At the point of his transfer, he was arguably the world’s most coveted player, having established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s biggest stars.

Wirtz had been Bayer Leverkusen’s talisman and primary creative source, a role he struggled to replicate at Anfield. The Reds have noted his talent but acknowledge that his impact has not matched the levels he displayed in Germany.

Performance, adaptation and club stance

This season is pivotal in determining whether the German justifies his massive price tag or is labelled a flop, especially after a full year of Premier League experience. According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool still believe Wirtz will reach his best form and have no intention of selling him next year.

Bayern Munich continue to monitor the 23‑year‑old, keeping the door open for a future transfer should he become available.

Liverpool will decide Alisson Becker's fate at Anfield next season

Calls for a second No 10 and future outlook

Former Liverpool midfielder Ray Houghton told Goal that the squad could benefit from another number‑10, saying, “If one number 10’s not doing it, then you can bring another one in.” He highlighted the team’s current width, naming Cody Gakpo, Victor Munoz, Rio Ngumoha and Bradley Barcola as options that could free up space for Wirtz in his preferred central role.

Houghton added that Wirtz needs consistency and more game time in his natural position, rather than being shifted to the flanks, to meet fan expectations attached to his price tag.

Following Liverpool’s 1‑0 win over Bournemouth, Jamie Carragher criticised Wirtz as “one of the poorest I’ve ever seen him in a Liverpool shirt,” noting his lack of numbers and suggesting the fee should have been half of what was paid. Carragher warned that the club expected him to drive a league title and Champions League challenge.

Liverpool must act to rescue Florian Wirtz as doubts mount

The combination of Houghton’s call for additional creativity and Carragher’s stark assessment underscores why many believe a second No 10 could unlock the magic Liverpool seek from Florian Wirtz.