Florian Wirtz has spoken about how the “freedom” given to him by Arne Slot helped him positively influence proceedings as Liverpool beat West Ham 2-0.
Wirtz’s start to life at Liverpool hasn’t gone exactly as planned since his £116 million move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Against West Ham, though, he delivered arguably his best performance yet for the Reds as he influenced play from the No. 10 position.
It was not the first time Wirtz has played in the role this season, but it was the first time he looked properly comfortable to dictate the team’s play.
“I was really happy to start, because I was out for two games. I was happy the manager decided to play me,” the German told Liverpoolfc.com.
LONDON, ENGLAND - Sunday, November 30, 2025: Liverpool's Florian Wirtz during the FA Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Liverpool FC at the London Stadium. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
“I tried to give my best and to help to turn it around that we start to win games again. I’m happy that I could give my best to this.
“I was playing more as a No. 10, I had the freedom to go to free spaces and create an overload. I tried to just make the possession better, tried to create chances.
“I had also one or two chances where I could score but I’m a bit unlucky at the moment, so I’ll keep going.”
Playing an attacking midfielder with such freedom isn’t always possible in the Premier League; earlier in the season, Wirtz was being blamed for Liverpool being so open in midfield.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - Sunday, November 9, 2025: Liverpool's Florian Wirtz prepares to take a corner-kick during the FA Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Liverpool FC at the City of Manchester Stadium. Man City won 3-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
However, with Dominik Szoboszlai to his right instead of Mo Salah, plus Joe Gomez at right-back and a hard-working performance from Cody Gakpo, the Reds looked more solid against West Ham.
Wirtz added: “I’m happy that I made a good game and could help the team to win. Everything else [in terms of goals and assists] will come soon.
“I don’t put too much pressure on myself because I know what I can do on the pitch. And when I can help the team win like this, I’m also happy.
“I don’t know [if it’s my best performance for Liverpool so far], maybe other people have to decide.
“But I’m just happy we won and I could contribute something to the performance. I’m happy that I could make my mark.”