"But thanks to a combination of Liverpool's significant summer overhaul, the breakneck speed of the Premier League and the vast array of attacking talent in Arne Slot's squad, Wirtz has looked as though he spent an hour inside a washing machine whenever he has walked off the pitch. So far, Wirtz has failed to score or create a goal in a competitive game for Liverpool. His only assist came against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield -- a game that's categorized as a friendly."
"In the matches he has played, he has been a peripheral figure. The Everton game was the first time that Slot decided to take Wirtz out of the starting lineup. And without him, Liverpool won again. Will the Germany international eventually come good in a Liverpool shirt? It's more than likely that he will -- Liverpool's perfect run to open the season has certainly helped ease any public pressure -- but don't bet on Wirtz being the real deal this season."
Florian Wirtz joined Liverpool in a deal worth up to £116 million three months ago. Seven competitive appearances have produced no goals or competitive assists; his only assist was in the Community Shield friendly. The club's summer squad overhaul and Premier League intensity have limited his influence, with Wirtz often appearing peripheral and substituted or dropped from the starting XI. He experienced the Merseyside derby from the bench. Liverpool's strong start has reduced external pressure, but expectations are that Wirtz may need at least another year to justify the transfer fee. Historical precedents show flair players sometimes require a season to adapt.
Read at ESPN.com
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