The Quiet Explosive Comeback: Slot Unmasks the Secret Behind Wirtz’s Rise at Liverpool
6 February 2026
Key reason behind Wirtz’s revival, revealed
Liverpool boss Arne Slot explained the main reason Florian Wirtz has looked sharper for the Reds, following a tough spell at Anfield. The Dutch coach stressed that much of the credit belongs to the German, who has been putting in the work on and off the pitch.
Game week and context
Liverpool are preparing to host Manchester City on Sunday at Anfield, in the 25th round of the Premier League.
In comments carried by PA Media, Slot said: "The primary praise should go to the player himself, as he is the one putting in the big effort, both on the field and in the gym."
Wirtz began the season with real challenges, failing to score in 16 appearances while contributing just three assists, during a period when Liverpool endured its worst start in 71 years after nine defeats in their last 12 games in all competitions.
From my point of view as a coach, even if a player faces early physical difficulties, he should remain in the squad because that is the only way to grow his level and development.
Slot added: "Wirtz is a living example; this season a number of players with similar technical abilities were around, so there hasn't been a big jump in his ball control, even though he was exceptional with it from day one."
He continued: "The trust to keep him involved, even amid previous doubts about his form, hasn't only boosted his fitness but also strengthened his communication and understanding with the rest of the group."
Slot noted: "Continued playing alongside teammates has made him more integrated and in tune with them, which is natural with more shared games. Yet, the clearest progress for him—and for others—shows in the attacking aspects."
He concluded: "That balance between ball possession and movement without it is what prepares a player for the Premier League, where control alone isn't enough; smart, effective off-ball movements are essential."
Punchlines: If Wirtz keeps this up, the net might start charging rent. And if the celebrations keep rolling, the defense might need a noise complaint form filed by the goalposts.
