Florian Wirtz backed to 'take next step' under Andoni Iraola at Liverpool - 'Everyone will love him'

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The 23-year-old attacking midfielder is set to feature in Germany's squad for the upcoming World Cup and got on the scoresheet in the 4-0 friendly victory against Finland in Mainz on Sunday.Former Germany international Steffen Freund — who enjoyed a Premier League career with Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City — believes Wirtz can draw on the lessons of his first season at Anfield to push on."I think the first year is always difficult, especially when you move to Liverpool as the Premier League champions," he said (via the Liverpool Echo )."The pressure was already there and it's a big traditional club. He was outstanding for Leverkusen and of course for Germany."I would say if he's not injured again, then he will take the next step next season.

Especially if he's adapted to the pace of the Premier League and the physical presence, because it's a higher level than the Bundesliga.Florian Wirtz endured a mixed first season at Liverpool(Image: Alex Dodd/Shutterstock)"It was the same at my time. At 2-0 up, you think the job's done.

So that's why it's taken a little bit more time for him to adapt."Wirtz will be playing under a new manager next season after Arne Slot was fired as Liverpool's boss at the weekend - and the Reds already look to be closing in on the Dutchman's replacement.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign.Talks are beginning with former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, with the 43-year-old the clear favorite to take over at Anfield, and Freund has predicted Wirtz will make a difference for him if he becomes managerSpeaking to Betway.com, Freund added: "Maybe Liverpool will sign one or two big players so that it's not only Florian Wirtz who will have to make a difference on the pitch."I'm sure he will go to the next step.