Florian Wirtz is already beginning to justify the hype in his first appearances for Liverpool. The 22-year-old, who joined the Reds this summer, made an immediate impact in pre-season friendlies played in Japan, scoring on debut and being named player of the match — an accolade that came with a ¥1m (around £5,400) prize.
Speaking to The Times, the Premier League's most expensive signing of the summer reflected on his first few weeks at the club and the process of adapting to life at Anfield.
“I came [to Liverpool] because I thought I could fit into this team straight away, and I’m enjoying playing with these players,” Wirtz said. “Each time it’s getting a little better, so I’m happy with the progress. I’m really enjoying the first few weeks.”
Although he has featured in only two friendlies so far, the Germany international is already showing signs that he could live up to the €100m (£84.5m) fee Liverpool paid to bring him in — not including additional bonuses. However, the real test will come once the Premier League gets underway.
“I haven’t played a Premier League match yet, but I’m excited — that’s why I came,” Wirtz added. “To be honest, I don’t know what it will be like. There’ll be some differences compared to the German league, but that’s something I can learn from. People say it’s more intense and physical, that all the players are very strong and fast. That’s what everyone tells me, and I believe it.”
Liverpool, who are the reigning English champions, will kick off their Premier League campaign at home to Bournemouth on 15 August.
Wirtz highlights Liverpool teammate who has impressed in pre-season
Liverpool's Florian Wirtz during his side's match against AC Milan, on July 26, 2025
Despite having only just arrived, Wirtz has already been impressed by the performances of another summer signing — French striker Hugo Ekitike. The 23-year-old joined from Frankfurt for a reported €90m (£76m), and like Wirtz, is yet to make his competitive debut for the club.
“He’s a very good player,” said Wirtz. “I enjoyed watching him at Frankfurt and was really happy he decided to come here. In training he’s already done well, and in the game we had some good combinations. I’m really happy to be able to play with him.”
Ekitike provided an assist in the 3-1 win over Yokohama, a match in which Wirtz found the net himself.
“It’s good to have a few players arriving at the same time,” Wirtz added. “We can connect a bit and talk about how we’re handling things. It helps when you join a new team.”
This article was originally published on Trivela.
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