Arne Slot Makes Florian Wirtz Fitness Admission as Liverpool Must Avoid 'Even Bigger Problem'

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has issued a candid update on Florian Wirtz's fitness amid growing concerns over the star midfielder's heavy workload. In a recent match against Leeds United, Slot opted to substitute Wirtz as a precautionary measure, revealing he "didn’t want to take the risk" of pushing the player too far[1].

Wirtz, who joined Liverpool in a high-profile transfer, has been integral to the team's success this season. However, his relentless schedule—logging 579 minutes out of the last 720 across all competitions—has begun to show visible tolls. Reports highlight signs of fatigue and cramp, including an incident where he was seen clutching his hamstring during play[1]. Slot emphasized the need for caution to prevent what he described as an "even bigger problem," underscoring the risks of overexertion in a packed fixture list.

The Dutch coach explained his decision post-match, noting Wirtz's pivotal role but prioritizing long-term health. "He's been outstanding, but we've seen the fatigue creeping in," Slot stated. This substitution allowed younger squad members to gain minutes while protecting Wirtz from potential injury. Liverpool's medical team is monitoring him closely, with rotation now a key strategy to manage his minutes.

Fans and pundits alike have praised Slot's proactive approach, drawing parallels to past cases where overloading key players led to extended absences. As Liverpool chases silverware on multiple fronts, avoiding an "even bigger problem" like a major injury to Wirtz is paramount. The club remains optimistic, with Slot confirming Wirtz is expected back for upcoming games, albeit with managed involvement.

This admission highlights Slot's pragmatic management style, balancing immediate results with squad sustainability in a grueling campaign.

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