Ex-Liverpool star Jermaine Pennant has compared Florian Wirtz to Darwin Nunez following the defeat to Manchester City, raising concerns about the German's future at Anfield
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 12: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Florian Wirtz of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Liverpool FC and Fulham at Anfield on September 12, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Florian Wirtz continues to struggle at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Florian Wirtz has been compared to former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez following the Reds' 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.
Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the second half shortly after Ryan Gravenberch was sent off, before Jeremy Doku curled in a stunning second and Rayan Cherki added a third.
The Liverpool midfielder had been expected to make a major impact in the center of the pitch and showed plenty of commitment in the challenge, but his contribution on the ball fell short of what was required. His substitution with Liverpool trailing further underlined his struggles in a difficult afternoon for the Reds.
Former Reds striker Jermaine Pennant questioned Wirtz's performances and warned that the German is beginning to resemble Nunez.
"Wirtz is making it harder and harder for the diehards to defend him, just saying," he wrote on X. Yes, he’s a better footballer than me — great, is that your comeback?
"He’s a great player when he’s on it and a joy to watch, but we need more. It’s simple. I’m starting to see a Darwin Nunez situation developing here! Lord almighty, I hope I’m wrong. All the trolls can @ me if he proves me wrong — I’d be delighted!"
One fan accused Pennant of piling pressure on the struggling midfielder rather than offering support. The 43-year-old replied: "Mate you’re not well.
Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant looks on
Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant has had his say on Florian Wirtz(Image: Getty Images)
"This is his second season w-- are you happy with what your seeing, this is a man’s game he’s not a baby, Jesus f------ Christ, if he’s c--- and play c--- only so much pampering one can get, if you play great you get the praises like no other. Clickbait, mate this is my football team you dope I want the best for them, god dam Moron. Take your head for wobble will ya"
The 23-year-old has struggled to make the impact Liverpool anticipated when they spent more than $150 million to sign him from Bayer Leverkusen last year.
After a difficult debut season at Anfield, Wirtz is facing further scrutiny this term, having recorded just one assist so far. Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has also urged the midfielder to be more decisive in front of goal, calling on him to back himself and shoot more often.
"Matheus Nunes has been sharp on the right hand side. I think that's where the main threat has come from. Bradley Barcola has been defending the whole half" he said on Sky Sports.
"I want to see Florian Wirtz shift and shoot for once, and have some confidence. If you miss, no problem. I think he needs to be slightly selfish in that position and let one fly."