Germany's national team coach, Julian Nagelsmann, is calling for patience regarding Liverpool's new midfielder, Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old made a high-profile move from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool this summer for a reported fee of £100 million plus bonuses. Despite Liverpool winning their first three matches of the Premier League season, Wirtz's performances have been somewhat subdued, leading to questions about his immediate impact.
Nagelsmann, speaking to reporters ahead of Germany's World Cup qualifier against Slovakia, affirmed that Wirtz remains a key player for the national team. However, he acknowledged that Wirtz has not been "incredibly dominant" and needs time to adjust to his new surroundings. He emphasized the collective nature of Liverpool's squad, pointing out the significant investment made in assembling a top-tier team. "You have to look at the whole gang playing around him," Nagelsmann stated. "They've spent a few euros on the top squad they've got there and you don't always stand out as an individual".
Nagelsmann believes that settling into a new culture, league, stadium, and club takes time. "It's normal that you need a bit more time in a new culture, a new league, in a new stadium at a new club," he said. He expressed confidence that Wirtz will eventually showcase his talent at Liverpool, predicting great games, goals, and assists.
Wirtz's move to Liverpool marks a significant chapter in his burgeoning career. He rose through the ranks at FC Köln before establishing himself as a key player at Bayer Leverkusen at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest scorer in Bundesliga history. He played a crucial role in Leverkusen's unbeaten domestic double in the 2023-24 season, earning Bundesliga Player of the Season honors.
Since joining Liverpool, Wirtz has already made his debut in the FA Community Shield and the Premier League. While he recorded an assist in the Community Shield, he is still adapting to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Some observers have noted that he appears to be still adjusting from the Bundesliga. Despite flashes of his ability, he is yet to consistently replicate the form he showed at Bayer Leverkusen.
Nagelsmann's call for patience reflects a broader understanding that adapting to a new environment in football requires time and support. The Premier League's intensity and tactical nuances differ from the Bundesliga, and Wirtz needs the opportunity to fully integrate into Liverpool's system.
Meanwhile, Nagelsmann is preparing his German squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. He has called up three uncapped players – Finn Dahmen, Nnamdi Collins, and Paul Nebel – signaling a blend of experienced players and fresh talent. He has also recalled Antonio Rüdiger, Angelo Stiller, Jamie Leweling and Nadiem Amiri to the squad. Germany will face Slovakia and Northern Ireland in their first two qualifying matches. Nagelsmann has named Oliver Baumann as his number one goalkeeper. He has emphasized the importance of starting the campaign strongly and establishing a dominant rhythm.
