Jamie Carragher raises ‘serious doubt’ over Florian Wirtz in make-or-break Liverpool season
Carragher claims the German has ‘resembled a useful squad addition’ rather than ‘a game-changer who cost £115m’ but his success or failure could be tied to a wider issue in the Premier League
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has expressed serious doubts about Florian Wirtz's ability to thrive in the Premier League during what he calls a "make-or-break season" for the German. Wirtz, who joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen last summer for £115m, struggled to adapt last term as Liverpool's title defense unraveled.
Carragher questioned whether Wirtz possesses the physical tools needed to succeed in the English league, pointing out that he lacks the athleticism and power of Kevin De Bruyne. While Wirtz showed flashes of potential, Carragher believes he has more resembled a useful squad member than a game-changer, costing significantly more than his £40m price tag would suggest.
Carragher acknowledged that it often takes a season to settle into English football, but added that Wirtz could again be pushed out of position or out of the side if defensive issues persist. He suggested that if Wirtz fails to make an impact early in the season, history may repeat itself, with Andoni Iraola potentially pushing Wirtz aside due to his own out-and-out winger setup.
Despite the signings of several other promising talents, only Alexander Isak managed to make a notable impact, leaving Liverpool in fifth place, 25 points behind champions Arsenal. The Reds face Newcastle at St James’ Park in their opening game of the 2026/27 season on Sunday, 23 August at 4.30pm.
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