‘Transfer flop’ is a complete ‘exaggeration’, says Gundogan about Wirtz critics
Florian Wirtz has received plenty of criticism following his high-profile move to Liverpool, but Ilkay Gundogan has come to his defence.
Ilkay Gundogan believes calling Florian Wirtz “a transfer flop” is “completely exaggerated” after his start to life in the Premier League with Liverpool.
Following his £116m (€133m) move from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz is yet to register a direct goal involvement for the Reds in the Premier League and Champions League.
The 22-year-old’s only goal for club or country this season came in Germany’s 3-1 win against Northern Ireland in September, while his only assist was in Liverpool's Community Shield loss against Crystal Palace.
However, his assist tally does not reflect his impact on Arne Slot’s side. After the first six matchdays in the Premier League, no player from the English top-flight had created more chances in all competitions than Wirtz.
And Gundogan, who played alongside Wirtz for Germany at Euro 2024, has no doubt that the midfielder will soon produce the goods for Liverpool.
“With the high transfer fee for Flo, it was somehow clear that things could get very loud very quickly in England – unfortunately, that's the way the business works these days,” Gundogan told Bild.
“It's not Flo's fault that he cost so much. Nevertheless, it's understandable that people expect a lot from him.
“I would like to see a bit more in-depth analysis here – and not just focus on the bare assists and goals.
“Anyone who doesn't see Flo's outstanding quality really doesn't understand much about football. To call it a transfer flop already is completely exaggerated."
Wirtz, who was an integral part of Leverkusen's 2023-24 Bundesliga-winning side, registered 79 goal contributions (35 goals and 44 assists) in 140 top flight appearances in Germany.
“I'm sure the goals and assists will come very soon – if not in October, then from November onwards. No player or person in this world can completely block out so much noise; it always takes its toll on you.
“Nevertheless, I believe Flo, as a human being, and given his immense talent, will get through this phase. That would also be extremely important for the German national team. Personally, I don't have many doubts and see it as just a matter of time.”
