Bayer Leverkusen boss Kasper Hjulmand has leapt to the defence of Florian Wirtz, insisting the £116 million Liverpool signing will soon “prove to everyone” why he’s one of Europe’s brightest stars — despite a quiet start to life at Anfield.
The 22-year-old midfielder, who became the second-most expensive transfer in British football history, has yet to score for Liverpool after nine appearances in all competitions. His subdued form has triggered criticism from both fans and pundits, but Hjulmand believes the backlash is premature.
Speaking to Sport Bild, Hjulmand called the expectations placed on Wirtz “unrealistic,” reminding critics that even the best players take time to adapt.
“Come on, he’s only just arrived there. Believe me, he’ll prove himself to everyone — even the experts in England. Show me the player who performs at his best from day one in a new club and league. It’s impossible,” Hjulmand said.
“Florian is a fantastic footballer with outstanding qualities. If he scores two great goals in his next two games, people will say, ‘Now he’s arrived.’ That would be just as wrong as the recent criticism.”
The Danish coach, who worked closely with Wirtz at Leverkusen, praised his former player’s mentality, saying he has the confidence and discipline to succeed under pressure.
Despite the scrutiny, Wirtz remains composed and optimistic about his Liverpool journey. In a recent interview, he said:
“I know what I can do, and I know that eventually I’ll show it fully on the pitch. So I just stay calm. Of course, I’d like to have scored or assisted already, but I know it will come. Sometimes things don’t go your way, but I work every day to improve.”
Liverpool fans were thrilled when the German playmaker joined from Leverkusen after two sensational seasons under Xabi Alonso. However, adapting to Arne Slot’s tactical system and the physicality of the Premier League has proven challenging so far.
Former Reds boss Jurgen Klopp and German captain Ilkay Gündogan have also defended Wirtz, echoing Hjulmand’s sentiment that his class is undeniable and his breakthrough is only a matter of time.
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