Wirtz £107m flop? Liverpool face reckoning

Florian Wirtz has failed to justify his £107m price tag at Liverpool, with critics saying he has not delivered under new manager Andoni Iraola ^[1]. The Germany international, signed in June 2025 to be the focal point of a restructured midfield, has managed only five Premier League goals and three assists last season, and just one assist in six appearances this season. His lack of defensive contribution and limited impact in high-tempo games has drawn sharp criticism, particularly after Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City ^[2].

In that match, Rayan Cherki outperformed Wirtz, scoring and showing relentless work rate—a contrast that has intensified scrutiny on the German playmaker ^[1]. Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville have both argued that Wirtz does not match the output of top-tier No10s like Bruno Fernandes or Cole Palmer, noting his failure to score or assist consistently. Carragher stressed that Liverpool’s attacking structure, with wingers hugging the touchline, leaves the No10 as the primary creative outlet—yet Wirtz has not fulfilled that role.

Iraola, known for his high-press, high-tempo system, has been forced to compromise by including Wirtz, but the player has struggled to adapt ^[1]. Critics argue that Wirtz lacks the necessary work rate and defensive engagement, with players like Ryan Gravenberch sidelined in his favour. While injuries to Alexander Isak have limited Wirtz’s support, the argument persists that he has had sufficient time to prove himself.

The debate has intensified as Liverpool’s overall attacking output remains underwhelming ^[1]. According to, Wirtz has not delivered, and the club may now need to reconsider his role. The question remains: can Iraola stay true to his principles and make tough decisions, or will he continue to prioritise the £107m signing over tactical cohesion? The story was first reported by Mirror and The Independent.