Iraola highlights expectations of Wirtz after his goal against Villarreal

After Florian Wirtz scored in Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Villarreal, Andoni Iraola summed up the expectations surrounding the German midfielder: “That is what people want to see when you are signed for such a high fee.” His comment puts goals and assists at the heart of the demands attached to the cost of his arrival, without reducing his contribution to those statistics alone.

Working with Wirtz was a priority for Iraola as soon as he arrived at Liverpool. He stresses the importance of having the player fully fit and his ability to adapt to the team’s style. “We need Florian to be in top condition. We know what he can bring us, and he fits our model of play well,” he said. Although Wirtz has sometimes played on the left, Iraola sees him more naturally behind the striker. He considers him a complete player and wants to add further qualities to his game.

The goal against Villarreal came amid signs of attacking progress. In the three matches played after the one against Manchester City, Wirtz contributed to a goal each time: he assisted Bradley Barcola in the win over LASK Linz (3-6), then Víctor Muñoz against Brentford (1-2), before scoring the fourth goal against Villarreal in the Champions League, in a 4-3 victory. Iraola also praised what Marca reported as three consecutive very good performances: away to LASK, against Brentford and against Villarreal, where Wirtz played the second half. He credited the midfielder with control and energy, both on and off the ball.

Those encouraging signs come against the backdrop of criticism after the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City. Jamie Carragher said then that Liverpool were struggling to score and create chances, while pointing out that Wirtz had been signed to help in both areas. He did not want the player singled out, but considered it reasonable to expect more from him.

Daniel Sturridge also noted an improvement in Wirtz’s statistics and the work he puts in for the team. Even so, he said goals and assists remain especially important expectations for a player in that role. Steven Gerrard acknowledged that Wirtz’s performances had not met expectations given the fee, but urged people to trust him: he believes Wirtz can turn things around and has seen enough quality from him in a Liverpool shirt.

The discussion around Wirtz extends beyond his immediate output. A former sporting director of the German national team said he could also fit in well with Hansi Flick in Barcelona, where he would have space and good teammates. Liverpool supporters, meanwhile, have voiced ambitious expectations around the signing, even talking of four titles. By saying that people want goals and assists, Iraola captures the pressure surrounding Wirtz; his comments on the midfielder’s play also underline what he offers beyond the numbers. Since Sadio Mané in 2021, no Liverpool player had created as many chances in a single match, a reference point that also illustrates the importance attached to that side of Wirtz’s game.