Liverpool’s Wirtz Dilemma and Why Gakpo Could Be the Answer at Burnley

Liverpool remain in control of their early Premier League campaign after three wins from three. The latest test comes at Turf Moor against Burnley, where Arne Slot’s team will be expected to continue their perfect start. Yet beyond the points tally, there are tactical questions developing around Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo and the best balance for a squad now rich with attacking options.

Wirtz search for rhythm

Florian Wirtz arrived at Anfield from Bayer Leverkusen for a British record fee of £116 million, the kind of investment that brings weighty expectations. His pedigree is unquestionable: 22 years old, already one of Europe’s finest creative midfielders, blessed with artistry on the ball and a vision that separates him from peers.

And yet his early Premier League outings have been steady rather than spectacular. Positioned centrally, he has linked play and showcased glimpses of his class, but Liverpool supporters are still waiting for the explosive moments that defined him in Germany.

Slot may now face a pivotal decision. Wirtz has previously thrived on the left, drifting inside to open space and drive at defenders. Releasing him from the congestion of central zones could be the adjustment that unlocks his best football in England.

Gakpo ready for advanced role

Cody Gakpo is central to this equation. Since arriving from PSV Eindhoven, the Dutch forward has steadily grown in influence, delivering 18 goals last season and beginning this campaign with another strong run of form. His finishing ability, combined with tactical intelligence, makes him a natural fit for a more advanced role in Slot’s evolving system.

With Alexander Isak unlikely to start at Burnley due to limited fitness, Gakpo could operate as the spearhead, supported by Hugo Ekitike. This would allow Wirtz to shift wide left, offering Liverpool greater dynamism and fluidity in attack.

Statistics back Gakpo’s effectiveness. Sofascore data shows he has averaged more than nine duels per match in the league so far, creating six key chances and dropping into deeper areas to link play. This blend of graft and guile makes him a perfect stopgap for the central role until Isak is fully integrated.

Burnley present firm examination

Vincent Kompany’s Burnley may be newly promoted, but Turf Moor is rarely an easy venue. They pushed Manchester United hard before the international break and beat Sunderland at home earlier this season. Liverpool, however, have already shown resilience, beating Arsenal and Newcastle in August.

Slot will demand precision from his side to avoid any slip in concentration, especially with a Champions League meeting against Atlético Madrid looming midweek. Squad depth provides room for rotation, but the expectation is that Gakpo will lead the line while Wirtz operates from a wider berth.

Long-term implications for Liverpool

When fit, Isak will assume responsibility as the main striker. His record and attributes justify the investment, and he is expected to deliver goals in volume. Yet the presence of Gakpo, Wirtz and Ekitike offers Slot tactical flexibility that Liverpool have not always possessed in recent years.

The bigger picture is one of evolution. Wirtz brings flair, Gakpo provides direct scoring threat, and Burnley will be the latest proving ground for a Liverpool team adjusting to new dynamics. Early inconsistencies in rhythm have not prevented three wins from three. Now, the challenge is finding the right formula to sustain a title challenge.