Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has backed Florian Wirtz to rediscover his form at Liverpool, following a poor start to life at the club.
German superstar Wirtz, joined the Premier League champions in a £116 million deal in the summer from Bayer Leverkusen, but has struggled to adapt to life at the English club.
The 22-year-old failed to score or assist in his first 10 matches this season and has only provided two goal contributions from 13 games in all competitions for the Reds.
Xabi Alonso coached Wirtz for three seasons during their time together in Germany, where they won the Bundesliga in the 2023-24 season with an unbeaten run.
The Spaniard also left the club in the summer to join Real Madrid, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti who went on to become head coach of the Brazil national team.
“I have no doubts, it’s just a matter of time. It’s a big chance for him, coming to Liverpool after so many years in Germany, and being there his whole life”, Alonso said.
“He needs to adapt, but he’s a really special player, he’s competitive. One of the reasons I am here is because of Flo. Hopefully not tomorrow, but I hope soon he’ll show his quality and his class”, the Real Madrid manager added.
Liverpool play host to Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League match-day four on Tuesday night, with Alonso set for a reunion with his former player.
England international Trent Alexander-Arnold could also face his boyhood club for the first time since leaving in the summer, if he’s passed fit after injury concerns.
“He’s fine, he didn’t play the other day [against Valencia] with the context of the game but he’s available,” Alonso continued.
“Tomorrow, he could play … We need him. Trent has great quality. It’s a new stage for him. We have to help him perform. He’s an exceptional player.”
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
