Liverpool’s prodigious midfielder Florian Wirtz finds himself under increasing scrutiny at Anfield, as the initial leniency towards his performances described as “puppy protection” is expected to wane. Reports emerging from Germany suggest that this period of indulgence may soon come to an end, compounded by a stuttering team performance in recent matches. Simultaneously, centre-back Ibrahima Konate has also not been spared criticism.
The Reds endured a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Galatasaray this past Tuesday, courtesy of a Victor Osimhen penalty, marking their second loss in the space of four days. Despite a robust recruitment drive this summer, Liverpool have struggled to replicate the formidable form displayed under manager Arne Slot in the previous season.
Florian Wirtz, a notable summer acquisition for the Merseysiders at a hefty £100 million plus potential add-ons, has yet to find his rhythm. Anfield icon Jamie Carragher has advocated for him to be benched, a sentiment seemingly echoed by Swiss pundit Marcel Reif. Speaking to German publication BlueNews, Reif noted that Wirtz’s influence has visibly waned from his days at Bayer Leverkusen, warning that the leniency currently afforded to his performances is unlikely to persist if Liverpool’s downward trend in results continues.
Reif commented, “He doesn’t have the same influence as he did in Leverkusen. I still believe in him because he’s a much too good player. But at some point, the puppy protection and the stroking will diminish.” His concern echoes the growing scepticism among fans and pundits, especially after successive defeats which have triggered inquiries into Wirtz’s contributions.
Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konate’s troubling form has raised eyebrows, particularly after speculation linking him with a summer move to Real Madrid. His recent displays, marked by inconsistency and errors, have been a cause for concern, as journalist James Pearce articulated in The Athletic. Drawing attention to Konate’s costly mistakes against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray, Pearce remarked that the French defender has “regressed alarmingly” since his commendable performances earlier in the season.
European football correspondent Kevin Hatchard, however, urges patience, highlighting the adaptation challenges Wirtz faces. Speaking to talkSPORT, Hatchard endorsed Wirtz’s potential, advising the Liverpool faithful to exercise patience amidst his acclimation to the Premier League’s relentless pace and intensity. He remains optimistic, asserting, “I’m 100 per cent convinced it’s going to happen for him.”
Hatchard also reflected on Wirtz’s extraordinary past achievements, underscoring his integral role in Leverkusen’s successes, and stressed the ongoing transition phase Liverpool are navigating. This restructuring, aimed at reducing over-reliance on the talismanic Mo Salah, will inevitably demand time and perseverance from all involved.
As Liverpool endeavour to recapture their winning stride, both Wirtz and Konate will undoubtedly be pivotal to any revival, with the spotlight firmly on their performances in the weeks ahead.
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