Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has addressed recent criticism surrounding Florian Wirtz, the club's £116 million signing. While some observers have pointed to Wirtz’s lack of goals and single assist in the Premier League this season as a cause for concern, Iraola insists that the player’s contribution should be measured by his overall influence on the pitch rather than raw data.

Iraola noted that Wirtz’s performance in the recent Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid demonstrated his quality, even if his domestic league numbers have yet to reflect that impact. The manager suggested that Wirtz’s effectiveness will naturally improve as he builds a stronger rapport with the team's evolving attacking lineup. The midfielder has faced specific scrutiny for the frequency with which he has conceded possession during matches this season. Iraola’s comments serve as a pushback against the narrative that the high-profile transfer has underperformed, emphasizing instead the importance of the player's work ethic and tactical role within the squad.