Florian Wirtz admitted that he "wants to score and assist sooner" after finally scoring his first goal for Liverpool in the Premier League. That is a humble statement, because few people expected the German international to wait until 23 appearances to "open his account" at Anfield.
Previously, there were moments that made people think that Wirtz had "opened up", typically the equalizing situation thanks to touching the ball and changing direction into Sunderland's net. But the goal against Wolves was the most accurate image of Wirtz that Liverpool expected.
The German international moves without ball intelligently, handles delicately and finishes neatly. The connection with Hugo Ekitike also shows clear potential, when this striker himself "responds" with a pass that opens up opportunities right from the beginning of the match.
Coach Arne Slot therefore has reason to be satisfied. He assessed that Wirtz played "very excellently in many moments" and "increasingly progressive", and understood that this midfielder needed such a push. The feeling of relief is recognizable in the Anfield stands when the ball is neatly in the net.
Liverpool fans have seen enough to believe that Wirtz has qualities suitable for the demanding environment here. However, the responsibility for turning potential into concrete contributions still lies with him. Anfield needs decisive moments from the former Bayer Leverkusen star - accurate touching, soft handling and technical sharpness enough to decide the match.
A goal at home against the bottom team, at a time when Liverpool was already leading, is not a shocking milestone. But if it becomes a fulcrum to help Wirtz relieve pressure and open up a more regular series of contributions, this could completely be a turning point in his journey at Liverpool.
I think this goal will definitely help Florian Wirtz feel somewhat relieved. The pressure has been completely removed. This is shown through his reaction after scoring and I also see the same thing in Wirtz's teammates.
Sometimes we tend to forget other things to do in a match. I think he has had many good matches for us even before scoring or assisting. At the same time, I also feel that Florian Wirtz is getting better and better after each match, getting healthier and healthier. That's certain and it shows that Wirtz really understands what he needs" - Slot said.
Liverpool conceded a goal from a "dead ball" in the second half and Slot was not satisfied with what his team showed in the second half of the match.
Although happy, the Dutch captain's point of view is still very clear: "I am not happy with what Liverpool showed in the second half. I think if you had led 2-0 in the first half, you would have expected the next 45 minutes to be completely different. In football, a goal can completely change the game.
