Florian Wirtz: Arne Slot reveals what’s changed with Liverpool star

Robin Bairner

• 5 Feb 2026 08:30 CST
• 2 min read

Nieuws

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has explained Florian Wirtz’s recent improvement and has hailed the work the Germany international has put in to get back towards his best.

Wirtz arrived at Anfield in the summer in a deal worth €125 million - a Premier League record at the time.

He made a slow start with the Reds, leading to fears that the 22-year-old might struggle with the physicality of the English top-flight, but Slot has hailed the expensive new arrival for the work he has put in behind the scenes to get up to speed.

Wirtz has been notably more impactful for Liverpool in recent matches, scoring six goals and generating two more assists over the course of his last 10 appearances.

Slot says that there was never any problem with the player’s ability with the ball and that it was all about getting his body up to speed.

“First and foremost, full credit to the player on the pitch and the gym, putting in the work. If someone is struggling physically at the start, you have to keep them in to improve, and he was an example of that,” Slot told the media of Wirtz.

“He didn't improve that much on the ball because he has always been special, but he now has the connections with his team-mates. Off the ball is the biggest improvement with him and that combination makes you ready for the Premier League. In the Premier League it’s about being strong both on and off the ball.”

Jeremy Jacquet: Slot hails Liverpool’s newest signing

Slot was also delighted to get the deal for Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet over the line.

Liverpool will sign the 20-year-old Frenchman in the summer after agreeing a €70 million package for the defender, beating Chelsea to the signing of the youngster in the process.

“It’s very pleasing because he’s a very big talent and maybe even more than a talent,” he said.

“We weren't the only ones interested in him so a big compliment to those who are signing the players.

“He’s another example of the model we use at this club: young, talented at the start of their careers, and can improve and help us straight away and in the long-term. We have signed a lot of those players recently and the mid- to long-term future is in as very good place.”

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