Liverpool supporters have quickly formed opinions about Florian Wirtz after manager Arne Slot tried him in a new position against Crystal Palace.
Wirtz returned to the starting lineup for the clash at Selhurst Park after being left out of Liverpool’s previous Premier League match against Everton. Before that, the 22-year-old had started four consecutive league games, including high-profile fixtures against Newcastle United and Arsenal.
Despite his £116 million summer move from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz has struggled to make a significant impact since joining Liverpool. Looking to spark an improvement, Slot deployed him in a slightly altered role on Saturday.
In this setup, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch partnered in central midfield, with Dominik Szoboszlai pushed further forward, while Wirtz was positioned on the left wing rather than his usual role as a central attacking midfielder. However, Liverpool fans were left puzzled as Wirtz frequently drifted inside, leaving the left flank open despite Milos Kerkez’s efforts to cover the space.
One fan posted on X: “Who’s supposed to be playing on the left? Because Wirtz isn’t staying there.”
Another added: “The harsh truth is we’re a better team without Wirtz right now.”
A third commented: “Slot needs to take Wirtz off and bring on Chiesa or Gakpo.”
A fourth wrote: “What even is our formation? Wirtz is never on the wing, he’s always central.”
Judging by his first-half display, Slot might consider turning to his bench in search of more attacking threat, with both Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa available as options.
Wirtz addresses his form and conversation with Slot
Wirtz has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League, failing to register a goal or an assist since his debut in the Community Shield.
Ahead of the Palace game, the German international spoke about his struggles and revealed a recent conversation with Slot.
“I recently spoke with the coach, and he explained why I might not be getting into the situations I’m used to,” Wirtz told Sky Germany. “Normally, I like to make the game quicker with a dribble or a pass, but he pointed out that because we press so much and I run a lot, I might lack the energy when I finally get the ball.”
He continued: “For example, in the running stats, I’m always near the top because I’m pushing hard and doing what the coach asks. That takes a lot of strength, so when I do get possession, I might not be as sharp as usual.
“He told me it’s something that will improve gradually — as I play more, get fitter, and find my rhythm. Eventually, I’ll have the energy to both press hard and be decisive with the ball.”
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