Florian Wirtz Setback Clarified as Liverpool Strongly Feel Absence of £116m Star

Liverpool suffered a major blow just minutes before their Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest on Sunday when Florian Wirtz, the club's £116 million summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen, was ruled out after picking up an injury during the warm-up.[1][3][4]

The German midfielder, who had been named in Arne Slot's starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation, arrived at the City Ground with his teammates appearing fully fit. However, he was seen speaking with coaching staff on the pitch before being abruptly withdrawn. Curtis Jones stepped in as his direct replacement, altering the lineup to: Alisson; Kerkez, Konaté, Van Dijk, Szoboszlai; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Gakpo; Ekitiké.[1][3][4]

The timing could not have been worse for Liverpool. Wirtz had recently hit top form, shaking off early struggles where he failed to score or assist in his first 15 Premier League appearances. In his last 10 top-flight games, he contributed to six goals, becoming a key threat in the attack.[3] His absence was keenly felt from the outset, with Jones losing possession early after hesitating on the ball.[3]

Manager Arne Slot downplayed the severity, expressing hope that it is not serious and anticipating Wirtz's return for the next match against West Ham United at Anfield on February 28—six days later. This provides a brief respite before a congested schedule, including two games against Wolverhampton Wanderers and the Champions League last-16 first leg.[3][6]

Liverpool fans and pundits alike highlighted the strong sense of absence left by the fifth-most valuable player in world football, whose rapid adaptation has justified the record fee. The setback clarifies concerns over his fitness but offers optimism for a swift recovery amid a packed fixture list.[5][6]

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