‘It’s not the whole story’ – Julian Nagelsmann suggests what’s really happening with Florian Wirtz at Liverpool
The international break came at the perfect time for Liverpool and for Florian Wirtz, who has found it difficult at Anfield since completing his mega-money move.
Whilst Liverpool have lost their last three games in all competitions, Wirtz is yet to register a goal or an assist in nine matches despite creating the most chances of any Premier League player (21).
Currently, the international break has handed the 22-year-old some respite from his problems at club level, but Wirtz was even mocked by fans on social media after Nick Woltemade fluffed a chance created by him during Germany’s 4-0 thrashing of Luxembourg.
Wirtz was used as a left winger by Julian Nagelsmann during that match, and the former Bayern Munich manager revealed a key reason behind his struggles.
Liverpool players to blame for Florian Wirtz’s struggles
Throughout his short time at Anfield, the attacking midfielder has divided opinion. Jamie Carragher believes Wirtz is causing Liverpool a ‘problem’ with their system, while others think he’s been unfortunate not to have more to show for his performances.
Speaking to Sport 1 post-match, Nagelsmann unsurprisingly agreed with the latter verdict and also pointed out that he’s still getting used to the league.
“Even though he hasn’t scored any goals, he is still the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League,” he said.
“It’s not his fault if his teammates don’t convert them, and the statistics don’t even tell the whole story.
“Wirtz needs to get used to the league. I saw him playing with total freedom. He knows what he’s capable of and how things work.”
| Florian Wirtz stats vs Luxembourg |
| 90 minutes played |
| 5 shots |
| 4 key passes |
| 1 big chance created |
| 88% accurate passes |
| 2 attempted dribbles |
Nagelsmann blamed the Liverpool players for not taking their chances rather than Wirtz himself, having watched him create multiple during their win over Luxembourg.
Paul Scholes agrees with Nagelsmann
Data proves Wirtz will come good at Liverpool, and the fact he’s created the most chances shows he’s having an impact on matches; he’s just not being helped by those around him.
Paul Scholes also agrees that Liverpool players are failing Wirtz, claiming the levels of those in the engine room have dropped from last season.
"I think he'll get it right!" 🤞
— The Overlap (@WeAreTheOverlap) October 7, 2025
Carra and Scholsey believe it’s only a matter of time for Wirtz at Liverpool! ⏳ pic.twitter.com/zqYS8EBXYf
Speaking on The Overlap’s Fan Debate show, Scholes said: “I think for Wirtz, because the midfield players around him aren’t in form, he’s not playing as well.
“Last year, Gravenberch was brilliant; he sat there and controlled everything, but it hasn’t been the same this season. When you play the number 10 position, you’ve got to have security in behind you so you can relax.”
Liverpool’s crunch clash against Manchester United after the break could truly ignite his career at Anfield.