Germany suffered a shock defeat to Ecuador in their most recent World Cup outing, and Florian Wirtz has once again been the subject of criticism from German pundits despite registering two goal contributions at the tournament so far.
Florian Wirtz started all three group games and grabbed an assist against Curacao and Ecuador.
There was no shortage of attacking intent from Germany against Ecuador, but Florian Wirtz continues to wait for his decisive moment in front of goal.
Despite producing flashes of brilliance throughout the contest, the creative midfielder was unable to notch his first World Cup goal.
Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann has once again come to the defence of Florian Wirtz, as he insisted the quality is still there despite the lack of end product and identified that the player is missing one key thing.
He said: “Flo was very committed and gave it his all. He is lacking luck. He had two or three top-notch dribbles in the penalty area. He is missing the goal.”
Nagelsmann also referenced Jamal Musiala, who spent a lengthy spell on the sidelines last season but made it into Germany’s World Cup squad.
“(Musiala) has been out for a year. We all know what he is capable of. We have to coax it out of him. The breakthrough (for Musiala and Wirtz) will definitely come on Monday.”
Germany face Paraguay in their Round of 32 tie on Monday evening with victory setting up a Round of 16 clash with either France or Sweden.
Those comments are encouraging, with Nagelsmann clearly maintaining complete faith in Wirtz despite his recent frustrations when it comes to finding the back of the net.
While the goals may not yet be flowing at this summer’s World Cup, Wirtz continues to influence matches with his movement and ability to carry the ball into dangerous areas.
If Nagelsmann’s prediction proves correct, Liverpool could see his confidence return in full force, and with it, the decisive contributions that made Wirtz one of the most sought-after talents in world football.
His frustrating first season on Merseyside will then be put firmly behind him.