Arne Slot defends Florian Wirtz after Liverpool icon raised concern over performances

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has passionately defended $158 million Florian Wirtz after Reds legend Steve Nicol expressed concerns over the Germany international's performances.

"The fact that Liverpool wins again probably means that Arne Slot can keep pushing Florian Wirtz in the starting XI and keep giving him time, hoping that his true form is going to come out."

However, Reds manager Slot has defended his big-money signing ahead of Liverpool's first Champions League game of the 2025/26 season against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.

Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz.

Florian Wirtz of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield on August 31, 2025 in Liverpool, England

The Reds left it late to topple Bournemouth 4-2 in the Premier League opener, before following up with a 3-2 win away at Newcastle, a 1-0 win over Arsenal, and a 1-0 victory against Burnley

The Reds will kickstart their Champions League campaign against Atletico at Anfield on Wednesday, in which Wirtz is expected to play a starring role