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Could Florian Wirtz Bring a New System of Play?

The unexpected departure of Jordan Henderson (in the summer), allowed the reds to bring in a potentially world class replacement, in the shape of Hungarian skipper, Dominik Szoboszlai. In attracting the interest of the player and thereby meeting the buyout clause of RB Leipzig’s star man, it has since proved to be the most vital part of a very good middle ground overhaul. The additional signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, have been successful additions thus far, however, the missed opportunity to grab Moisés Caicedo (for a world record fee), means the central regeneration was not quite ideal. Though Wataru Endō will prove to be a solid squad option, I suspect a winter addition will still be added, one that will see a new holding midfielder brought to the club. The evolving and exciting transformation of this squad will continue for the next few windows, as Liverpool 2.0 takes a tantalising shape. Despite the importance in continually looking to refresh any footballing squad, the current refurbishment is still going well, which will only improve with the appointment of a new Sporting Director. That recruitment seems not too far away, which could mean the planning for more exciting recruitment can then be undertaken.

Who Should be the Main Summer Target, if Mohamed Salah Were to Leave…?

The current incarnation of this team allows a 3-4-3 system, essentially when Liverpool have possession of the ball. I suspect the inevitable sale of Mohamed Salah will see a slight shift in formation, one which could see the Egyptian King replaced (in the starting lineup at least) by Bayer Leverkusen’s brilliant young talent, Florian Wirtz. A new attacking enterprise would see an upgraded defensive midfield piece added also, one that would allow our Argentina World Cup winner, Alexis, to shift into a more prominent role. For ease and clarity, I have a graphic below which shows how I hope the first team elite evolves, in the unfortunate circumstances where the reds were to lose their world class talisman, Mohamed Salah.

With both Trent Alexander Arnold and Dominik Szoboszlai dropping back one (when possession is lost), it would allow the creative forces freedom and flexibility to interchange and wreak some Halloween havoc. Only the holding midfielder in this case, Manu Kone and central striker would be required to stay regimented in the midfield and forward lines, whereas all other offensive players could switch positions and help facilitate opposition confusion. The likes of Dominik and Thiago Alcântara could easily play in a midfield two next to a defensive piece, whereas Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch could operate in either the central midfield or attacking midfield positions. As a tactical adjustment, an out of possession system would see Florian Wirtz move into a more central position, just off the starting centre forward. With increased solidity and explosive speed in transition, the creation of the German 20-year-old would help spread the loss of Salah’s goals across the team. With a key eye for goals himself, the increased demand on others would need the attacking midfielders to step up, however, I do suspect that our Uruguayan striker, Darwin Núñez, would take up the mantle as the club’s most potent weapon.

Florian Wirtz Stats

Florian Wirtz

Age – 20-years old (DOB 3/5/2003)

Current Club – Bayer 04 Leverkusen

Nationality – German

Playing Positions – CAM / RW / LW

Preferred Foot – Right

Height – 5ft 9inches

Weight – 72kg

Appearances – 141 games

Career Goals & Assists – 43 / 41

Total Minutes Played – 10,372

International Caps & Goals – 12 games / 0 goals

Contract Expiry – June 30 – 2027

Transfermarkt Value – €85m

With eleven goal involvements (four goals & seven assists) in his twelve games so far season, it is fair to say that his prior injury problems have not scuppered the developing nature of Germany’s brightest prospect. The limitless potential of the former FC Köln prodigy has meant that all top European clubs will be waiting and watching, with a desire to entice this young man to their own clubs. Liverpool have been linked with a move in the past, therefore, as part of the forward line restructure that may be needed, I hope this attacking sensation is someone that remains high on the list of wants.

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