Wirtz Adjusts to Premier League’s Intense Pace and Powerful Tackles
Florian Wirtz has admitted the Premier League has been tougher than he expected since his move from Bayer Leverkusen last summer. The 22-year-old arrived at Anfield in a club-record £116 million transfer.
Adapting to the Premier League
Wirtz said the English top flight is more intense and physical than he imagined. He described having far less time on the ball and needing quicker decisions.
In short, Wirtz adjusts to Premier League’s intense pace and powerful tackles. He noted defenders close him down fast and arrive in numbers.
Early struggles and improving form
He scored his first Premier League goal after Christmas. That strike came in a 2-1 win over Wolves.
Wirtz has added three more goals since then. Across all competitions he finished the debut season with six goals and nine assists from 39 appearances.
Leverkusen legacy
Wirtz joined Liverpool after starring for Leverkusen. He helped the club complete an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in 2023/24 under Xabi Alonso.
He also reached the UEFA Europa League final with Leverkusen. Wirtz was the Bundesliga’s youngest-ever scorer at 17.
While at Leverkusen he won Bundesliga Player of the Year and German Footballer of the Year awards. He scored 57 goals in almost 200 games for the club.
Personal targets and team context
Wirtz says his main lesson is faster decision-making. He feels sharper in training than in matches and wants to close that gap.
He wants to contribute more and believes he can reach higher levels. The player remains focused on helping Liverpool win trophies.
Liverpool’s campaign and priorities
The club has struggled while defending the title won last season under Arne Slot. Liverpool currently sit fifth with 49 points.
They are one point clear of Chelsea and two points behind Aston Villa. The Reds still have Champions League and FA Cup quarter-final ties.
Liverpool face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last-eight. They meet Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Broadcast and where to follow
Wirtz spoke to Steve McManaman ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Brighton. The interview aired live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
Brighton v Liverpool was shown on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, and via discovery+. Coverage began at 11:00 UK time on Saturday, March 21.
TNT Sports offers up to four TV channels and several digital channels. Subscriptions are available through discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.
For full listings and local viewing options, see Filmogaz.com.
