One Liverpool player is understood to be frustrated with his early displays at Anfield and has been affected by some of the criticism directed his way.<\/p>\n
The past summer marked a period of major upheaval on Merseyside, with much of Arne Slot\u2019s title-winning squad departing and a host of new faces arriving in the dressing room.<\/p>\n
Florian Wirtz arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in June for a then-club-record \u00a3116m fee, later eclipsed by the signing of Alexander Isak. While the German has impressed with his all-round contribution, he is still waiting to open his goalscoring account for the Reds after 21 appearances.<\/p>\n
According to a detailed report from The Athletic published on Wednesday, which explored the changing dynamics within Liverpool\u2019s squad following the overhaul, Wirtz has been left disappointed by what he views as a slow start to life on Merseyside. The report claims he has taken some of the criticism personally, despite previously stating that he would not feel burdened by his hefty transfer fee. It is also noted that the 22-year-old is continuing to settle into a squad filled with unfamiliar teammates.<\/p>\n
Despite his lack of goals, Wirtz\u2019s performances have largely been outstanding. Even on a reported \u00a3200,000-per-week salary, the report highlights how elite footballers are not immune to the mental strain caused by expectation and external scrutiny. While criticism is inevitable at the top level, it\u2019s worth remembering that Wirtz is a young player adapting to a new country and performing under the glare of a global audience.<\/p>\n
The wait for a first goal at Anfield has undoubtedly been frustrating, especially for a player who scored 16 goals last season and 18 the year before. He even thought he had broken the duck against Sunderland recently, only for the goal to be credited as a Nordi Mukiele own goal.<\/p>\n
Although Wirtz may be judging himself harshly, those who have watched Liverpool regularly this season will appreciate the quality he has brought to the side. Neil Mellor described him as a \u201cjoy to watch\u201d against Brighton, while Alan Shearer has praised his vision, passing range and ability to find space between the lines.<\/p>\n
If Wirtz continues performing at the level he has shown, the goals should arrive sooner rather than later. Once that first one finally comes, it could spark a run of scoring that lifts a clear weight from his shoulders. And even if he remains critical of himself, he can take comfort in knowing that most Liverpool supporters are firmly impressed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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