Florian Wirtz’s transition to Liverpool has been far from smooth, and the pressure is mounting on the young German midfielder. After joining the Reds last summer for a staggering €137 million from Bayer Leverkusen, expectations were sky-high. However, with just three assists and no goals to his name this season, Wirtz has struggled to find his rhythm. As he gears up to face Real Madrid in the Champions League this Tuesday, he has a prime opportunity to finally make his mark in England.
Wirtz’s journey to Liverpool was not without its twists. According to reports from AS, Real Madrid had their eyes on the talented 22-year-old long before he donned the Liverpool jersey. The Spanish giants identified Wirtz as a prodigious talent back in 2020 when he was only 17. Their recruitment chief, Juni Calafat, even engaged in discussions with Wirtz’s agents, signaling a serious interest from the Bernabéu. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic thwarted any potential move, as Madrid was forced to halt all concrete approaches.
The Impact of COVID-19
The global health crisis had a profound impact on football transfers, and Wirtz’s situation was no exception. With the pandemic causing uncertainty across clubs worldwide, Real Madrid could not finalize their pursuit of the young star. It wasn’t until after he turned 18 that Wirtz truly emerged on the scene, showcasing his undeniable skills during the 2020-2021 Bundesliga season where he made 29 appearances. His ability to dictate play and create chances quickly caught the attention of football fans and scouts alike.
A Star Yet to Shine
Now at Liverpool, Wirtz is expected to live up to his superstar status; however, he finds himself struggling for a consistent starting position under manager Arne Slot. In recent matches, he has started both games on the bench, raising questions about his current form and integration into the squad. Should he earn a starting role against Real Madrid, it will be a crucial moment for him—not only to ignite his season but also to face off against a club that once coveted him.
As Wirtz prepares for this pivotal clash, he carries with him the weight of expectations and a narrative filled with what-ifs. Will he rise to the occasion and finally kickstart his Liverpool career? Or will it be another missed opportunity against a team that nearly signed him four years ago? The stage is set for an intriguing showdown.
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