Overview
- Didi Hamann suggested a short-term move to Real Madrid in January cannot be ruled out and said Xabi Alonso is monitoring Florian Wirtz, citing the modern precedent of big-name loans like Philippe Coutinho’s.
- Liverpool-based coverage reports no official approaches or club action, and Wirtz remains in Arne Slot’s squad as speculation centers on pundit opinion rather than concrete negotiations.
- Emile Heskey urged Wirtz to look to Luka Modric’s early struggles in Spain for inspiration and called for strong backing from the manager, while Dimitar Berbatov predicted success if the 22-year-old is given time.
- Joe Cole argued Liverpool’s midfield balance has been unsettled by the record signing’s introduction and suggested more minutes off the bench through the winter, even as he maintained Wirtz’s quality is not in doubt.
- Reports highlight tactical and physical adjustments as factors in Wirtz’s modest start after his £116m move, noting fewer touches and more pressing at Liverpool, flashes in Europe, and a recent substitution in the 3-2 loss to Brentford as the team prepares to face Aston Villa and then Real Madrid.