Julian Nagelsmann shares Florian Wirtz conversations after Liverpool criticism

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Florian Wirtz has grown to become an important player for Liverpool since the start of the season, having initially struggled during his early days with the club

Julian Nagelsmann and Florian Wirtz(Image: 2026 Markus Gilliar - GES Sportfoto)

Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann said that the criticism Florian Wirtz faced earlier this season was unjustified.

Wirtz joined Liverpool with huge expectations on his shoulders but started his Anfield career slowly, failing to register a goal or an assist in the Premier League until December.

After lining up in Liverpool's first four league games of the season, Wirtz then started just two of the next six, but he has lined up in every league game since when he has been fit.

The German's influence has slowly started to grow in recent months and he is now an important creative outlet for Arne Slot's team.

Wirtz really showed his quality for his country on Friday night as he played a part in all four of Germany's goals in a 4-3 friendly win over Switzerland, scoring two of them and assisting the other two.

Afterwards, Germany boss Nagelsmann addressed the criticism that was aimed at Wirtz earlier in the campaign as he defended the player's sluggish start to life at his new club.

“That was a completely normal situation that affects a young player," Nagelsmann said.

"He’s someone with emotions and first has to deal with facing criticism. At that intensity, it wasn’t justified.

“We grew even closer, had many good conversations where he really opened up.

"He’s intelligent and very open, and you get a lot back from talking to him. He can take a lot from that phase and come out stronger than ever before.”

Wirtz impressed for Germany on international duty(Image: 2026 Markus Gilliar - GES Sportfoto)

Despite being just 22 years old, Wirtz has already made 38 appearances for his country and will be a central figure in Nagelsmann's team during this summer's World Cup.

And Nagelsmann thinks that Wirtz will be one of the world's best players for many years to come if he continues to apply himself in the way that he currently does.

“What sets him apart is his commitment – covering so much ground and working so hard as a left attacking midfielder is exceptional,” said Nagelsmann.

“He’s already a name in world football, and if he keeps this up, he’ll remain at the very top for a long time at any club because he’s unbelievably good and always has the necessary energy.

"Lothar Matthaus gave him a grade of A+ with a star. Who would want to disagree? You can’t.”