Xabi Alonso Expects Florian Wirtz to Flourish at Liverpool
Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence in Florian Wirtz’s potential to thrive at Liverpool, indicating that it is only a matter of time before the £116 million midfielder makes an impact at Anfield.
Since transferring from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, Wirtz has faced scrutiny for his performance, contributing no goals and just two assists in 13 matches across the Premier League and Champions League.
As a former Liverpool player who coached Wirtz for three seasons at Leverkusen, where they won the 2024 Bundesliga title together, Alonso will return to Anfield on Tuesday as the head coach of Real Madrid.
“I have no doubts that he will succeed; it’s only a matter of time,” Alonso stated at a press conference ahead of the match. “This is a significant opportunity for him, moving to Liverpool after many years in Germany, having grown up there.”
During his tenure under Alonso, Wirtz excelled, scoring 11 goals and assisting another 11 during the 2023-24 Bundesliga season, followed by 10 goals and 12 assists in the next campaign.
“He just needs some time to adapt, but he’s an extraordinary talent,” Alonso remarked. “He’s extremely competitive. One of the main reasons I am here is because of Flo. I hope we will soon see his exceptional abilities on the field.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold has also been included in Madrid’s squad for the Champions League match after a challenging start to the season due to injury. He has only played 151 minutes in LaLiga and five minutes in the Champions League this season.
“He’s in good shape; he didn’t play the other day against Valencia due to the game’s circumstances, but he is available,” Alonso noted. “He could play tomorrow… We really need him. Trent possesses remarkable skills. He is entering a new chapter here, and we must support him in delivering his best performance. He’s an exceptional talent.”
On his return to Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold, who achieved Champions League glory and two Premier League titles with the club, may receive a mixed reception from fans. Some are displeased with the manner of his departure last summer on a free transfer.
“We haven’t discussed that,” Alonso added. “He must process his emotions in his own way. I won’t dictate how he should feel. His story differs from mine; he was born here… He deserves to appreciate this moment. It’s great for him to be back.”
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