Florian Wirtz has been given a passionate defence of his start to Liverpool life by former Germany colleague Ilkay Gunodgan
Ilkay Gundogan hugs Florian Wirtz during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Germany and Hungary at Stuttgart Arena on June 19, 2024 in Stuttgart
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Former Manchester City star Ilkay Gunodgan has slammed critics of Florian Wirtz at Liverpool, saying negative analysis has been "completely exaggerated". And the Galatasaray midfielder has called for his former Germany colleague to block out the noise and show the form that made him the current Bundesliga and Germany player of the year.
Wirtz has yet to create an assist or score a goal for his new club since the 2-2 Community Shield draw with Crystal Palace over two months ago, when he played in Hugo Ekitike for the opening goal at Wembley.
Liverpool paid £116m to Bayer Leverkusen in June to land the attacking midfielder and three successive defeats before the international break has opened up a discussion about the 22-year-old Wirtz's opening weeks on Merseyside.
Gunodgan, who was Wirtz's die Mannschaft colleague before retiring from international football in August of last year with 82 caps, has slammed those who have been critical of Liverpool's No.7 in an interview with Bild in his homeland.
"With the high transfer fee for Flo, it was somehow clear that things could get very loud very quickly in England – unfortunately, that's the way the business works these days," Gunodgan said.
"It's not Flo's fault that he cost so much. Nevertheless, it's understandable that people expect a lot from him. However, I've read that across all competitions, no Premier League player has created more chances than Flo.
"I would like to see a bit more in-depth analysis here – and not just focus on the bare assists and goals. Anyone who doesn't see Flo's outstanding quality really doesn't understand much about football.
"To call it a transfer flop already is completely exaggerated. I'm sure the goals and assists will come very soon – if not in October, then from November onwards.
"No player or person in this world can completely block out so much noise; it always takes its toll on you. Nevertheless, I believe Flo, as a human being, and given his immense talent, will get through this phase.
"That would also be extremely important for the German national team. Personally, I don't have many doubts and see it as just a matter of time."
Wirtz is expected to be involved in Belfast when Julian Nagelsmann's side are entertained by Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier on Monday night.