Florian Wirtz says Arne Slot’s system is already getting the best out of him and believes Liverpool fans will see even more once he’s fully settled.
The 22-year-old midfielder, who joined the Reds from Bayer Leverkusen in a £100m deal this summer, made his Anfield debut in Monday night’s 3-2 friendly win over Athletic Club. Wirtz started in an advanced midfield role and came close to scoring twice, showing flashes of the quality that made him one of Europe’s most wanted players.
Speaking after the match, Wirtz told Liverpoolfc.com:
“I think I am a player who needs freedom on the pitch, and the manager gives it to me. Of course, I have to respect the position and the players around me, but I try to give my best on the pitch and find the right places. I have the freedom for this.”
The German international is the headline name in Liverpool’s post-title summer rebuild, with Slot’s side already spending over £265m, and more potentially to come.
He made his first appearances during the club’s tour of the Far East, scoring against Yokohama F. Marinos and featuring in the match against AC Milan. But Monday was his first time in front of the Anfield crowd, and he’s enjoying every moment of his new challenge.
“I came because I thought I could fit in this team, and I am enjoying playing with these players,” Wirtz said.
“Every time, it is getting a little bit better, so I am happy with how it is going. I’m really enjoying the first weeks.”
Wirtz also had good words for fellow new signing Hugo Ekitike, who set up a goal in the same match:
“He is a really good player. I enjoyed watching him at Frankfurt, and I was really happy that he decided to come to us. In the training sessions already, he went well and also in the game, we had some combinations that were good.”
Looking ahead to the new Premier League season, Wirtz knows the challenge will be big, but he’s ready for it.
“I have not played a match in the Premier League, but I am looking forward to it, and that is why I came. They tell me it’s more intense and more physical… That is what everybody is telling me, and I’m aware of that.”
“The big challenge is to take the title again, and it is the most difficult thing, so I try just to create chances and also work against the ball because I can also run a lot, and I will try to bring this to the team.
