Florian Wirtz is not expected to leave Liverpool despite speculation over his future following a difficult first season at the club.
The Germany international joined the Reds for a reported £100 million fee little more than a year ago, but his failure to settle quickly has prompted rumours that Liverpool could consider selling him.
Wirtz’s struggles were viewed as a significant factor in a disappointing campaign, which ended with Arne Slot losing his job. Andoni Iraola has since taken charge, although the new manager’s approach has so far done little to produce a clear improvement in the midfielder’s form.
However, Liverpool would face the prospect of a substantial loss if they attempted to sell Wirtz now. The club are therefore expected to retain the player and hope he can regain his best form rather than sanction his departure.
Andoni Iraola searching for the right role for Florian Wirtz
Iraola is understood to remain keen to find a system that allows Wirtz to have a greater influence. The midfielder offered encouragement with an impressive display in Liverpool’s Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid earlier this month.
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke said: “He was very impressive in that Champions League win against Atletico Madrid earlier this month as well. So look, it’s up to Andoni Iraola to find the best position for him in the team and try and get the best out of Florian Wirtz.”
Iraola will hope that Liverpool can reproduce the fast, attacking football associated with his previous work at Bournemouth. If the team’s performances improve, Wirtz may have a stronger platform from which to rediscover his form.
