Former Germany international Steffen Freund believes Florian Wirtz can make the 'next step' at Liverpool next season after a difficult first campaign adapting to Premier League life
20:59, 01 Jun 2026Updated 21:04, 01 Jun 2026
Florian Wirtz of Germany
Florian Wirtz of Germany(Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Florian Wirtz has been tipped to take the "next step" at Liverpool after finding his feet in the Premier League.
Wirtz endured a mixed debut campaign with the Reds following his move last summer from Bayer Leverkusen in a $156 million (£116M) deal, contributing seven goals and 10 assists. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder is set to feature in Germany's squad for the upcoming World Cup and got on the scoresheet in the 4-0 friendly victory against Finland in Mainz on Sunday.
Former Germany international Steffen Freund — who enjoyed a Premier League career with Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City — believes Wirtz can draw on the lessons of his first season at Anfield to push on.
"I think the first year is always difficult, especially when you move to Liverpool as the Premier League champions," he said (via the Liverpool Echo ).
"The pressure was already there and it's a big traditional club. He was outstanding for Leverkusen and of course for Germany.
"I would say if he's not injured again, then he will take the next step next season. Especially if he's adapted to the pace of the Premier League and the physical presence, because it's a higher level than the Bundesliga.
Florian Wirtz endured a mixed first season at Liverpool
Florian Wirtz endured a mixed first season at Liverpool(Image: Alex Dodd/Shutterstock)
"It was the same at my time. I was shocked in the beginning because there's so much energy in every game. At 2-0 up, you think the job's done. But no, five or 10 minutes later, it's 2-2. So that's why it's taken a little bit more time for him to adapt."
Wirtz will be playing under a new manager next season after Arne Slot was fired as Liverpool's boss at the weekend - and the Reds already look to be closing in on the Dutchman's replacement.
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Talks are beginning with former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, with the 43-year-old the clear favorite to take over at Anfield, and Freund has predicted Wirtz will make a difference for him if he becomes manager
Speaking to Betway.com, Freund added: "Maybe Liverpool will sign one or two big players so that it's not only Florian Wirtz who will have to make a difference on the pitch.
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"I'm sure he will go to the next step. And then everyone will love him because he could be a top-class player. His ability and skill is why I still believe in him."