Wirtz’s Liverpool journey shows signs of promise
Liverpool entered the season with excitement after investing heavily in emerging talent, and Florian Wirtz was at the centre of that optimism. He arrived with a reputation for creativity, intelligence and final third composure. Yet the first few months have proved more complex than expected. Fifteen appearances, two assists and a player still adjusting to the Premier League rhythm. Even so, the wider picture is far richer than the early numbers suggest.
Barnes provides a measured perspective
John Barnes has never been one to rush to judgement and his view on Wirtz reflects a deeper reading of Liverpool’s evolving identity. Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, he was asked directly, “Do you think Wirtz will come good?”
“I think he will because, in fact, he has been doing okay. He’s been playing well, he’s been creative,” he said. Barnes highlighted that the midfielder’s challenges are not isolated. “But I think that is because the team hasn’t been consistent and we’re looking at him as part of that inconsistency.
“But in terms of when he’s on the ball and what he does, I think he’s been very good. The problem we have is that before when we’re a team who pass the ball much quicker, get the ball forward quicker.
“Now we’re having many more touches in midfield, many more touches up front, which means that when teams get back behind the ball with 10 men, and we’re having Wirtz or Ekitike who is a good dribbler, it’s difficult to get through them as you saw against Man City.
“Whereas in the old days, we’d have one or two passes that would get it forward quickly. So we’re finding our feet with that. And these are still young and inexperienced players for the Premier League.”
Barnes’s argument taps into something Liverpool supporters recognise. Wirtz has produced glimpses of sharp footwork, disguised passes and spatial awareness. He looks like a player who understands what he wants to do, even if the team around him is still finding its tempo.
Form builds at the right moment
The international break offered Liverpool some much needed breathing space. It also gave Wirtz the chance to regroup. After a difficult showing in the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, he joined up with Germany and delivered one of his strongest displays of the season. Given more freedom, he showed the confidence and invention that first attracted Liverpool to him.
As Arne Slot reflects on his options for the Nottingham Forest match, Wirtz’s recent form places him firmly in contention. He impressed for Germany off the left, yet Liverpool may still see his long term value in central areas. Wherever he starts, the signs point to a player beginning to settle.
Barnes, Liverpool and the value of patience
Liverpool have always benefited from patience with young talent. Barnes’s endorsement carries weight and his message is clear. Wirtz has the qualities required, and the structure around him will sharpen with time. Liverpool supporters have seen promising beginnings before. With guidance, confidence and rhythm, Wirtz looks capable of joining that tradition.
