Steven Gerrard sees things differently from Jamie Carragher about Florian Wirtz and has a request for Andoni Iraola.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has shared a different view on whether Florian Wirtz should be dropped from the Reds’ starting lineup by Andoni Iraola, after Jamie Carragher harshly criticized the German following Liverpool’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City on Sunday (October 11).
Wirtz had a tough game against Enzo Maresca’s side, with City winning thanks to goals from Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, and Rayan Cherki, keeping their perfect start to the 2026/27 season.
After the match, ex-Liverpool defender and pundit Carragher was very critical of Wirtz, saying he might need to be taken out of the team after a slow start to the season.
Carragher said Wirtz doesn’t look like scoring or assisting like other No. 10s such as Cole Palmer, Martin Odegaard, and Bruno Fernandes do. The former Bayer Leverkusen player averages just 0.18 assists, 0.16 goals, and creates 2.2 chances every 90 minutes in the Premier League.
“I think he needs to come out of the team, I said that last time and I’ll say it again,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “Liverpool played well for much of the game before the Gravenberch red card but didn’t create a single chance. Liverpool have a big problem this season scoring and creating chances—that’s why they signed Wirtz. He’s not helping defensively or going forward. I don’t want to be harsh on the lad, but we need more and can’t wait any longer. I think the midfield needs to change to bring goals, assists, and more strength. Gravenberch has to play.”
However, Gerrard believes Wirtz just needs support from Liverpool’s experienced players and coaching staff, saying “there’s definitely a player there” despite his rough start at Anfield.
On the Overlap Daily, Gerrard said: “His confidence is low and he’s not playing well enough. I agree he needs to do more, but I think he needs help—not to be dropped. He needs support from his manager, coaches, and senior teammates. I can imagine he’s beating himself up over how he’s started at Liverpool. This kid is a big talent, and I believe in him. Having better players fit and available around him will help because there’s been a lot of changes and it feels like a transition period for the team. Maybe if everyone was fit, sitting on the bench for a couple of games could help him.”
Gerrard added: “He has to step up and understand the situation, but there’s definitely a player there. Is he struggling with the physicality of the Premier League? Yes, but he can get the help he needs to succeed. I wouldn’t give up on him just yet—it’s too soon.”
Wirtz joined Liverpool in 2025 for up to £116 million and has scored seven goals and made 11 assists in 56 games so far.
Liverpool will face LASK in the Champions League on Wednesday (October 14).