Florian Wirtz has revealed that Arne Slot won him over “from the very first meeting” as he explained the position he was “brought in for” at Liverpool.
Liverpool invested heavily in the German with a deal worth £116 million, their biggest-ever outlay in a nod to the club’s desire to build from a position of strength.
Prising the 22-year-old away from Germany was a statement coup, and Slot played a big role in convincing Wirtz to take his next career step at Anfield, primarily in the No. 10 position.
“The discussions with Arne were very, very good from the very beginning. He won me over from the very first meeting,” Wirtz told German outlet kicker in a recent interview.
“He gave me clear ideas and a clear vision of how he could and wanted to use me in his team. This, combined with the structure of the team, really convinced me.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Monday, August 4, 2025: Liverpool's Florian Wirtz during a pre-season friendly match between Liverpool FC and Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. Liverpool won 3-2. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
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He added: “He saw me in the number 10 position, where I play best. I was brought in for that position because they trusted me to make the team better.
“And I’m trying to live up to that as best as I can.”
It is a role Slot has utilised Wirtz in to start the season, but the head coach also told reporters ahead of the trip to Newcastle that he would consider using the 22-year-old in the false nine and left wing roles.
Slot looks for versatility in a player and Wirtz’s game intelligence enables him to be moved around accordingly, but it is clear the intention is to maximise his strengths at No. 10.
It is also telling the role Slot has had to play in Liverpool’s signings this summer, with his plans for prospective players proving persuasive in the club landing their targets.
It was a concern in the aftermath of Jurgen Klopp‘s exit that Liverpool may not have the same pulling power, but Slot and his debut season success has put to bed any concerns that lingered.
With one week remaining in the summer transfer window, Liverpool have signed nine players and recouped £216 million in sales, for a current net spend of £105.1 million.