German media react to Florian Wirtz performance vs Slovenia

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Image Credits: Imago Images

Germany and Florian Wirtz suffered a humiliating 2-0 defeat to Slovakia in Bratislava on Thursday evening, marking their first-ever away loss in World Cup qualifying history.

The result represents a nightmare start to their 2026 World Cup campaign and extends their losing streak to three consecutive matches.

Slovakia took the lead through David Hancko’s well-placed strike just before halftime after Germany lost possession in midfield.

The hosts doubled their advantage ten minutes into the second half when David Strelec produced a moment of individual brilliance, dancing past Antonio Rudiger before curling a sublime finish into the top corner.

Germany’s performance was characterised by defensive frailty and attacking impotence.

The backline, anchored by Rudiger and Jonathan Tah, looked sluggish and disorganised throughout.

Manager Julian Nagelsmann was scathing in his post-match assessment, criticising his players for lacking “emotionality” and suggesting he might prioritise effort over pure talent in future team selections.

The defeat leaves Germany needing to win their remaining five qualifying matches to avoid the playoffs.

With Northern Ireland topping Group A after beating Luxembourg 3-1, pressure is mounting on Nagelsmann’s side.

Meanwhile, it was likewise not the best showing for Florian Wirtz – or at least according to the German media.

BILD have released an article titled “What’s going on with Wirtz?” and claim that the “Superstar is in crisis since mega transfer”.

They gave the Liverpool man a 6/10 and wrote:

“Since the mega move to Liverpool, things haven’t been going well.

Wirtz is not convincing either at club or in the national team.”

“Actually, he was supposed to lead the attack in the absence of Jamal Musiala (broken leg) – but against Slovakia he was almost invisible.”

Newspaper Ran.DE appear to assign some blame to Wirtz for the opening goal, suggesting he did not try and defend after losing possession.

They gave him 5/10 and wrote:

“Loses the ball in front before the 0:1 and then goes into tete-a-tete with Duda instead of going into reverse gear.”

“Tried with the ball but frustrated with ongoing playing time.

Dubravka thwarts his best chance with a strong save (32nd).”

It’s clear that Florian Wirtz is still adapting to playing for Liverpool in the Premier League, so we shouldn’t be too harsh on the 22-ear-old if he does not arrive with the German national team full of confidence.

Even Arne Slot referenced this, when speaking of the cramp the German picked up against Arsenal:

“It wasn’t an injury?

It was a welcome to the Premier League,” Slot said.

“It was after 85 minutes I don’t think he knew he could have cramp in so many different places

That’s what happened.”

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