Florian Wirtz Injury Timeline Emerges as Liverpool See Just How Badly They Need Their £116m Man

Liverpool FC suffered a last-minute blow ahead of their Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest on February 22, 2026, when star signing Florian Wirtz was ruled out due to a back injury sustained during the warm-up[2][3][6]. The German international, acquired for a whopping £116 million, had been named in the starting XI but was replaced by Curtis Jones right before kick-off[4][5].

Manager Arne Slot provided an optimistic update post-match, following Liverpool's dramatic 1-0 victory at the City Ground. "We don’t think it’s very serious," Slot insisted, noting Wirtz felt his back too much to perform at the required intensity[1][2]. After six to eight months in the league, the No.7 has learned that top form demands 100% fitness, prompting the cautious decision to sideline him[2]. Slot expects Wirtz back "next week," ahead of the West Ham United visit on February 28, though he cautioned, "you never know how things work out[2][3]."

The injury timeline reveals Wirtz arrived with the squad appearing fit, but discomfort arose rapidly during warm-up preparations[5]. He was spotted discussing with coaches before the late switch, with Liverpool's matchday blog confirming Jones' inclusion[5]. This comes at a pivotal moment: Wirtz, who struggled initially with no goals or assists in his first 15 Premier League games, has exploded recently, contributing to six goals in his last 10 outings[4]. His absence highlighted Liverpool's reliance on the versatile attacker in Slot's 4-2-3-1 setup, where Jones' more defensive profile led to an early turnover[4].

With a packed schedule—including back-to-back Wolverhampton Wanderers games and a Champions League last-16 first leg looming—the £116m man's swift return is crucial[4]. Liverpool's win without him underscores depth, but his form has proven indispensable, amplifying the stakes of this setback. Fans and analysts alike now eye the recovery timeline closely, hoping the timeline holds true for next week's Anfield showdown[1][6].

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