Photo by Burak Basturk / Middle East Images / AFP via Getty Images
Photo by Burak Basturk / Middle East Images / AFP via Getty Images
Florian Wirtz has been singing the praises of Julian Nagelsmann, with the Germany coach picking him up after a difficult start to life at Liverpool.
Nagelsmann’s name was put forward as a candidate to replace Arne Slot back in November, and although suggestions of a change were dismissed at the time, the 38-year-old would surely be a strong contender if Slot were to be sacked.
If Liverpool need a character reference they need only come to Wirtz, who has credited his national team manager with keeping his head up during a difficult start to life at Anfield last year.
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Nagelsmann helps Wirtz through Liverpool sticky patch
Although Wirtz has generally seemed unruffled by his tricky start at Liverpool, he has now admitted that he did need an arm around the shoulder, which duly came from Nagelsmann.
“It wasn’t an easy phase,” Wirtz admitted via Bullinews, going on to add what the Germany manager told him at the time.
“(Nagelsmann said) it’s sometimes good that things don’t always go upwards, and that you experience a dip and grow stronger because of it.
“That’s how I see it now as well – it has made me a bit stronger,” the 22-year-old added. “I had to overcome resistance and adapt. I had to learn to become stronger and hold onto the ball.”
Florian Wirtz celebrates with David Raum after scoring for Germany during their international friendly against Switzerland
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Going further in his praise, Wirtz claimed that his problems at Liverpool have actually made his relationship with Nagelsmann stronger too.
“(Nagelsmann) always supported me during the difficult phase after my move to Liverpool and always had an open ear for me,” he said. “He gave me tips and reassured me. That has brought us closer together.”
Analysis: Nagelsmann should be a contender for Liverpool job
When the candidates are put forward for those who could replace Arne Slot at Liverpool, Nagelsmann’s name is often left off the list.
Nevertheless, the former Bayern Munich boss remains one of the brightest young coaches of his generation. Whichever club manages to hire him after his stint with Germany will be a lucky one.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes watching on during the Reds' Premier League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge (Credit: Getty Images/Robin Jones).
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes watching on during the Reds' Premier League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge (Credit: Getty Images/Robin Jones).
If they want to get the best out of Wirtz, then Liverpool should really be in the mix to make sure it is them.
Xabi Alonso is often seen as the key to maximising the German’s potential at Anfield, but Nagelsmann clearly has that gift as well.
Getting Wirtz firing is not the only way to improve fortunes at Liverpool, and would not be the only consideration whenever they do decide to hire a new manager, but given his importance to making the team tick, it is vital that the next man in the dugout has Wirtz onside.
Nagelsmann obviously does, and coupling that with his brand of exciting, attacking football, he should definitely be in the frame to take charge at Liverpool.