Wirtz Delivers for Liverpool but Remains a Tactical Conundrum

Florian Wirtz was instrumental as Liverpool secured a Premier League victory against Brentford on Saturday, yet his role continues to be a point of discussion for manager Andoni Iraola.

Wirtz has faced criticism for failing to consistently replicate his form since his club-record £116 million transfer in June 2025. Former Liverpool player Steven Gerrard suggested earlier in the week that Wirtz might benefit from being temporarily removed from the starting lineup to regain confidence.

The tactical challenge posed by Wirtz was evident at the Brentford Community Stadium. Liverpool responded to their first league defeat of the season against Manchester City by scoring twice in the second half against a Brentford side reduced to 10 men before halftime. The visitors created numerous opportunities, particularly with their man advantage, registering 14 of their 21 total attempts in the second half.

Wirtz was central to Liverpool's attacking efforts, creating more chances from open play (nine) than any other player in a Premier League match over the last six seasons. This tally matches Sadio Mane's record for Liverpool against Burnley in January 2021 and is the highest by an away player in over 15 years, since Samir Nasri for Manchester City against Tottenham in August 2011.

Despite these statistics, the effect of his playing style on the team's dynamics remains under scrutiny. BBC Sport pundit Danny Murphy expressed concern that a midfield featuring Wirtz as an attacking midfielder makes Iraola's side too susceptible to opposition attacks. Murphy noted that the spaces between players appeared too large, making it easy for opponents to progress the ball and get in behind the defense.

Wirtz's strengths are undeniable. He currently leads the Premier League in chances created this season, level with Brighton's Pascal Gross on 18. He provided the assist for Liverpool's first goal against Brentford, marking his second consecutive game with a goal involvement across all competitions. He also led the team in final-third entries and passes within the attacking third. However, he also lost possession 19 times and won only one of his nine duels, indicating areas for improvement.

Murphy suggested that deploying three midfielders instead of an attacking midfielder like Wirtz could provide greater stability and defensive solidity. He emphasized the importance of a strong foundation, defense, and being difficult to beat, arguing that attacking play should build from this base.

The victory moved Liverpool to fifth in the league standings, with three wins in their first seven games under Iraola. This marked their first away league win after conceding first since December 2023. However, the team also sustained injuries to Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong during the match.

Iraola acknowledged the demanding schedule, noting that a run of four games in 10 days is particularly taxing. He highlighted the need for rest ahead of their upcoming Champions League fixture against Villarreal.