Florian Wirtz: the figures qualify Gary's criticism
By OnzeActu · · 4 min read
Florian Wirtz has been under fire since his arrival at Liverpool, notably from Gary Neville who criticizes him for a lack of performance. However, the statistical data reveals a more nuanced reality, especially in comparison with his last season in the Bundesliga and the overall performance of the Reds.
According to Sports.
Why it matters
Gary Neville's criticism of Florian Wirtz highlights the high expectations placed on him as Liverpool's star signing. Valued at £100 million, his transfer has sparked questions about his impact in Premier League football, especially as the Reds are going through a difficult period. Understanding the numbers behind his performances can influence fans' and analysts' perceptions of his adaptation to the club.
Key points
- Florian Wirtz: the figures qualify Gary's criticism.
- Florian Wirtz has been under fire since his arrival at Liverpool, notably from Gary Neville who criticizes him for a lack of performance.
- Has Wirtz really underperformed at Liverpool?.
Since his resounding transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool, Florian Wirtz has faced significant pressure linked to his substantial purchase price. Indeed, the English club paid an initial sum of 100 million pounds, likely to reach 116 million with bonuses, which makes him one of the most expensive recruitments in the club's history.
In this context, former England international and consultant Gary Neville did not hesitate to openly criticize the German midfielder, believing that he had benefited from too easy a journey since his arrival at the Reds and that he must now fully justify his immense potential on the field.
However, a closer analysis of the statistics shows that the situation is more subtle. In his final season in the Bundesliga with Leverkusen, Wirtz had a combined goals and assists average of 0.84 per 90 minutes, a remarkable performance which explained his high transfer fee.
At Liverpool, on the other hand, his current average is more modest, at 0.33 decisive contributions per match over the 2025-2026 season. This figure seems low compared to his previous exploits, but it must be placed in the context of the entire team: this average also reflects the general collective performance of the Reds who have experienced a less prosperous period. In addition, the new responsibilities and the adaptation to a different championship weigh on his immediate performance.
It is therefore premature to characterize Wirtz's performance as disappointing without taking into account the complexity of his integration, his specific role in Liverpool's playing system, as well as the overall circumstances of the team. The young player retains enormous potential and many expectations rest on his shoulders as the English club look to return to a competitive level of play in the Premier League and European competitions.
Gary Neville's criticism reflects the media pressure around record-price transfers, but a close observation of the figures underlines that Florian Wirtz's career at Liverpool is far from static and that it will probably take a little more time for him to fully impose his mark on his new club.
The rest
As the next matches of the season approach, Wirtz will need to prove his worth on the pitch to live up to the expectations of Liverpool supporters. With an average of 0.33 decisive contributions per match, it is crucial that he quickly finds his rhythm to improve the team's collective performance. The next few meetings will be decisive for his future at the club and for his reputation as an emerging talent in European football.
Frequently asked questions
What is the transfer price of Florian Wirtz to Liverpool?
Florian Wirtz's transfer price to Liverpool is 100 million pounds, rising to 116 million with bonuses.
How do Florian Wirtz's performances at Liverpool compare to his previous season at Leverkusen?
At Leverkusen, Wirtz averaged 0.84 goals and assists per 90 minutes, while at Liverpool his current average is 0.33 assists per game.
What was Gary Neville's reaction to Florian Wirtz?
Gary Neville criticized Florian Wirtz, saying he
He had benefited from a course that was too easy and he had to justify his potential on the field.
What impact do Wirtz's performances have on Liverpool's rankings?
Wirtz's performances, although modest, must be seen in the context of Liverpool's overall performance, which has had a less successful period.
What are Liverpool’s next matches?
The article does not mention Liverpool's upcoming matches.