Arne Slot’s harsh words on Florian Wirtz despite 5-star performance against Wolves


Liverpool continued their encouraging form with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Wolves, as goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz secured all three points at Anfield.

However, attention had indeed returned to Florian Wirtzwho finally opened his objective account for Liverpool after arriving with high expectations.

The German playmaker, who arrived at Anfield with a huge reputation, finally opened his account for the Reds with a superb opening goal which capped a star performance.

Despite growing enthusiasm around Anfield, Liverpool manager Arne Slot was quick to adopt a measured tone, insisting that Wirtz’s opening goal should be seen as a platform rather than an end point.

Arne Slot says Florian Wirtz must score more

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Slot offered a balanced assessment of Wirtz’s performance.

Although visibly pleased with the midfielder’s contribution, the Dutchman appeared to want to temper the hype, offering a touch of constructive criticism regarding the player’s performance.

Slot acknowledged the relief of the first goal, but immediately mentioned the need for more frequent goal contributions from the German.

Speaking to the press after the match, Slot said:

“In football, rightly so, we are judged mainly on results and individuals are judged mainly on goals and assists. We sometimes tend to forget what else there is to do during a match and I think he has had several good games for us, but I also think he is getting better and better with every game he plays for us.

“He’s getting fitter and better and he’s getting closer and closer to his first goal and it’s no surprise to me that he scored one today. But he would probably be the first to understand that one goal is not enough.

“He will score a lot more goals for us. I also liked his performance for a large part of the match today. I think he was special in many moments.”

Wirtz’s performance against Wolves

While Slot demands higher production, the Wolves game stats highlight just how much Wirtz was in Liverpool’s midfield.

Operating in the pockets of space between the midfield and defensive lines, the 22-year-old was the architect of Liverpool’s dominance.

His first goal was a moment of individual genius, but his overall play was equally impressive.

Statistical Value
Precise passes 71/84 (85%)
Chances created 3
Expected objectives (xG) 0.75
Expected objectives on target (xGOT) 0.31
Expected aid (xA) 0.38
xG + xA 1.13
Defensive contributions 6
Shots on target 1/2 (50%)
Keys 104
Keys in the opposition box 9
Successful dribbles 7/8 (88%)
Passes into the final third 5
Accurate long bullets 2/5 (40%)
Dispossessed 1
Non-penalty xG 0.75
Tackles 2
Blocks 0
Clearances 1
Interceptions 1
Recoveries 2
Dribble passed 0
Ground duels won 10/13 (77%)
Aerial duels won 1/2 (50%)
Has been fouled 1
Faults committed 1

Florian Wirtz’s stats against Wolves via PhotoMob

It was a complete midfield masterclass that suggests the Germany international is ready to become the heart of this Liverpool team for years to come.





Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *