Florian Wirtz must be dropped says Jamie Carragher | OneFootball

Liverpool’s turbulent start to the season has intensified after back-to-back defeats, culminating in a bruising Champions League loss to Galatasaray. Among the growing concerns is the form of Florian Wirtz (22), with Jamie Carragher insisting the German midfielder should be removed from the starting line-up to restore balance.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher was candid in his assessment: “Right now I don’t think the balance of the team is right, and the obvious one that stands out is Florian Wirtz. He’s just not at the races at all.”

Wirtz, signed for £100m amid huge expectations, has yet to register a goal or assist in either the Premier League or Champions League. While his energy and off-the-ball movement have been noted, tangible contributions have been lacking, and his struggles have coincided with Liverpool’s dip in form.

Carragher pointed to last season’s structure as a template, arguing that Arne Slot must revert to a more settled system while easing Wirtz’s adaptation to English football. “He’s a young boy coming into a new league; he’s got plenty of time. But right now Liverpool need to build confidence and defensive solidity. Because at the moment, it’s a mess.”

With Chelsea visiting Anfield at the weekend, Slot faces a critical selection dilemma. Persist with Wirtz and risk further scrutiny, or withdraw him to stabilise a faltering side? But with a £100m price tag, Wirtz will need to start adding goal contributions to his performances sooner rather than later.

GFN | Finn Entwistle