Florian Wirtz has faced heavy criticism since joining Liverpool, but the latest news shows manager Andoni Iraola remains firmly behind his new No.10.
Iraola defends Florian Wirtz amid growing criticism
As reported by The Mirror, Wirtz has struggled to justify his £116 million price tag since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen. He has started all five matches under Iraola this season, including Saturday’s goalless draw with Fulham. Yet he still only has a single assist to show for his efforts since his move into English football. His display against Atletico Madrid drew fresh scrutiny, even though he covered more ground than anyone else on the pitch that night.
Iraola pushed back firmly against that narrative, praising the German for his overall contribution on the ball. The manager pointed out that Wirtz plays a key role for the team when Liverpool do not have possession. He also helps the press from the front and disrupts opposition build-up play. He noted that Wirtz runs similar distances to other Premier League No.10s at Arsenal, Manchester City and Fulham.
Wirtz’s stats in the 2025-26 season at Liverpool, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Chances Created
Premier League 33 5 3 60
FA Cup 4 1 1 3
UCL 11 1 3 32
Numbers do not tell the full story
As reported by Sports Mole, Iraola made his stance clear when speaking to reporters after the match. “He played very well against Atletico Madrid,”Iraola said. “He helped us a lot, he was very good on the ball and overall I was very happy with his performance.” The manager also referenced the goal against Nottingham Forest that did not stand, suggesting Wirtz has been unlucky rather than short of quality.
“I am not too focused about numbers,” Iraola added. “Everyone tells players you have to assist, you have to score goals. For me, you have to help us play well. Someone will score the goals if we are doing well collectively.”That last line captured his broader point, Wirtz’s job is to help the team function rather than chase personal numbers.
Wirtz has come up with seven goals and 11 assists in 54 appearances for Liverpool since his move. That record looks far more respectable when set against the small sample of matches under Iraola so far this season.
Support from Gerrard and Pennant adds weight
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard echoed similar sentiments after watching Wirtz up close. “His service has been a lot better tonight, he’s been unlucky not to get an assist,” Gerrard said. He added that the youngster deserved a break from the constant pressure surrounding his transfer. Former winger Jermaine Pennant has also spoken up in Wirtz’s defence recently. He questioned why a player still adjusting to a new league and manager is already being written off after five games.
Speaking after the Fulham draw, Pennant argued the eye test matters more than the stat sheet here. Wirtz had managed two chances created and three progressive carries without finding the target himself. Pennant pointed to what he called the pre-assist, the quiet touches and clever runs that set up a teammate. He insisted those actions carry just as much weight as a goal or an assist.
Bradley Barcola, Victor Munoz and a fit-again Alexander Isak are all competing for attacking spots. That competition around Florian Wirtz has only intensified, making Iraola’s public backing all the more significant. The manager has kept faith in Wirtz as his first choice No.10 through every selection so far.