Aguero Backs Wirtz as Liverpool Faces Struggles in Season

Sergio Aguero, the former Manchester City striker, has expressed his support for Florian Wirtz, predicting that the young midfielder will become an essential player for Liverpool FC. Wirtz, 22, has faced challenges since his £116 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen in June, making 16 appearances without scoring a goal. Despite this, he has contributed three assists—two in the Champions League and one in the FA Cup—but has struggled to secure a regular spot in Arne Slot‘s starting lineup.

Wirtz has often found himself in competition with Cody Gakpo for a place on the field, leading to inconsistent performance levels that have raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Aguero remains optimistic, asserting that it is only a matter of time before Wirtz finds his footing at Anfield. In a recent interview with Stake, Aguero remarked, “It’s hard to give advice. Players have different personalities and their adaptation times vary. Some adapt quickly and others need more time. But I have no doubt he will settle. Great players—and Wirtz is one—sooner or later settle and become vital in their teams.”

Aguero’s comments come in the wake of Dietmar Hamann, a former Liverpool midfielder, suggesting that a loan move for Wirtz in the January transfer window could be a possibility. Hamann commented, “Could Florian Wirtz still leave Liverpool on loan in January? Yeah,” adding that the hefty price tag might lead to higher expectations for the young player. He expressed concern about Wirtz’s current form, saying, “I’m not sure he’s capable of turning it around. Sometimes when I watch him lose possession, I think maybe it’s because it’s a lot quicker, a lot more physical.”

The discussion surrounding Wirtz also touches on the broader challenges Liverpool is facing this season. The team has been underperforming, and Aguero pointed out that even established stars like Mohamed Salah are feeling the pressure. Salah has managed only five goals in 18 appearances this season, a stark contrast to his usual high-scoring form. Aguero commented on Salah’s situation, stating, “Never doubt a great goal-scorer. Salah has a fantastic scoring record and I’m confident he’ll regain his form.”

The situation at Liverpool reflects a larger narrative in the Premier League, where adaptation and performance are crucial for success. With Wirtz’s future uncertain and Salah struggling to find the net, the pressure will mount on both players as they work to turn their seasons around. As Aguero noted, “A player can’t carry the entire team on his own,” highlighting the need for collective effort amidst individual struggles.

As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Wirtz and Liverpool to see how they navigate the challenges ahead.