Gary Lineker Supports Florian Wirtz Amid Liverpool Concerns
Florian Wirtz has had a slow start at Liverpool, yet Gary Lineker remains confident in the German midfielder’s potential at Anfield. Lineker highlighted Wirtz's footballing skill, emphasizing his past performances as evidence that he can prove valuable for the Reds.
High Expectations and Early Challenges
Liverpool began their summer transfer activity by signing Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a then-British record fee of £116 million. Despite the anticipation surrounding his arrival, Wirtz has yet to register a goal or assist in the Premier League. He was also a substitute during Liverpool’s recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.
Expert Opinions on Wirtz’s Potential
Although the 22-year-old is facing increased pressure, Lineker and former player Micah Richards both believe he has the talent to succeed at Liverpool. Lineker described Wirtz as an “exceptional” prospect, while Richards praised the decision to sign him, despite acknowledging the challenges of adapting to the Premier League.
“At the moment he is not up to speed for the Premier League, but he spent £100m on him, but 100% it was the right decision that he made,” Richards told the Rest is Football podcast.
Richards also noted that while Liverpool has spent heavily, they have lost important players, like Trent Alexander-Arnold, affecting the squad’s dynamics.
“I know we have talked about Trent (Alexander-Arnold) before and all that sort of thing; of course you are going to miss that calibre of player. Liverpool now go back to what they did last season.”
Summary
Gary Lineker and Micah Richards believe costly signing Florian Wirtz has the talent to eventually thrive at Liverpool despite a slow Premier League start and high expectations.