Former Germany midfielder Philipp Lahm is not worried about playmaker Florian Wirtz despite his initial difficulties at Liverpool.
Germany opened their World Cup campaign with a dominant 7-1 victory over Curacao in Houston, highlighted by an impressive performance from Florian Wirtz.
The Liverpool midfielder set the tone early by assisting the opening goal of the match. Following the stellar display, German football legend Philipp Lahm praised Wirtz, naming him the national team’s best player at the tournament.
Unfortunately, the 23-year-old didn’t find the back of the net, though he delivered an expert performance.
The four-time World Cup champions have been far below their expectations in the last two tournaments. However, this time around, they have a great chance to put their failures in the past. Julian Nagelsmann offers a fresh look at international football, with a high pressing machine. Add in the creative spark they operate with, and it’s easy to see why some supporters fancy their chances.
Alongside Wirtz, Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala are the spark of the team, as they sit in behind the striker. Musiala got himself a goal just after the break as they put their fourth past the World Cup newcomers.
Many view Munich’s man as the leader, given how difficult a debut season Wirtz had at Anfield. However, a German legend believes that the Liverpool star is their best player and the man who can lead them to success.
Philip Lahm discusses Wirtz importance
Bayern Munich and Germany legend Philipp Lahm highlighted just how important Wirtz will be in this tournament. The former fullback was involved in their 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil, where he captained his nation.
While Curacao may not have been the hardest test, they still face tough opposition in Group F. Their next meeting is with the Ivory Coast on the weekend, who beat Ecuador 1-0 in the early hours on Monday. The South Americans were unlucky not to walk away with a single point after a fantastic showing. As the Germans set their sights on greater challenges, Lahm claims that Wirtz will be the star of the show on his TikTok account.
When asked who the best player is in Nagelsmann’s squad, he said, “Florian Wirtz. He has taken the step from the Bundesliga to the Premier League with Liverpool.
“He’s had a difficult season, but I think his abilities are exceptional. I’m excited to watch him, and I hope he has a successful World Cup.”
When he’s represented his country, he has normally been amongst the goals, with an impressive collection. Liverpool supporters have yet to see him flourish in the red shirt, which Kopites want to see so dearly. The £116 million fee the Merseyside outfit agreed with Bayer Leverkusen for Wirtz demanded big expecations, though he has yet to live up to them.
However, the atmosphere with his national side may be more relaxed than the chaos of the Premier League. His assist yesterday meant he has now recorded 23 goal contributions in 42 outings for his national side.
Wirtz Liverpool revival
Liverpool and German fans will be hoping he can continue his fine form during the tournament. Once they return home, it will be a new setting for the 22-year-old on Merseyside, though one that could allow him to thrive in a new system under a new head coach.
As much as some supporters may blame Arne Slot’s sacking on a man like Wirtz, there is a major counterpoint. This tournament has shown great signs from the German, alongside Alexander Isak, who scored and grabbed two assists against Sweden. The pair have been criticised since moving to Anfield, with neither looking like their previous selves. The Dutch head coach had an issue with how he platformed these stars, which may have been a key decision, alongside results, in his being sacked.
In his place is Andoni Iraola, the former Bournemouth boss, well known for his attacking nature. After complaints directed at Slot for his pragmatic style, the script will be switched for the new campaign. It felt like there wasn’t a direct place for the German under Slot despite glimpses of his talent, which they were unable to extract.
With Mohamed Salah now gone, the baton has been passed to Wirtz and Isak to lead the charge. They have to be the men to step up to the plate, and being the star for Germany at the World Cup can help him fulfil his Anfield dreams.
