Christian Ziege Exclusive: Florian Wirtz Will Only Succeed at Liverpool If…

Florian Wirtz has the quality to succeed at Liverpool. According to Christian Ziege, only if he’s played in the right position.

Speaking exclusively to BOYLE Sports, the former Liverpool left-back, who won the UEFA Cup with the club in 2001, explained why Wirtz has to play centrally under Andoni Iraola.

He also gave his view on what Alexander Isak’s fitness means for the attack, why Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez deserve backing, and why young German talents Finn Jeltsch and Kevin Schade should be in no hurry to move to Anfield.

Wirtz & Liverpool Under Andoni Iraola

Christian Ziege on Florian Wirtz and Liverpool Under Andoni Iraola

What Do You Make of the Current Liverpool Side, and What Are Your Expectations?

“This is a transitional season for Liverpool. After Klopp left, they had a successful following season winning the Premier League again, but now they face a bit of a rebuilding period.

“They’re on a good path with the new coach from my point of view, they made a good decision in Andoni Iraola.

“But it will take a little bit of time to fix everything and become real contenders again for winning the Premier League.”

Has Florian Wirtz Turned a Corner at Liverpool, and Is Iraola Getting the Best Out of Him?

“First of all, moving to a new country and a new league, especially the Premier League, is never easy. Anyone who has played there knows it’s vastly different from the Bundesliga or Serie A.

“Secondly, Liverpool underwent major changes with Jürgen Klopp leaving and then Arne Slot leaving.

“The crucial factor for Wirtz is playing him in his natural position which he is doing now. Previously, he was played wide where he wasn’t as effective. He needs to play centrally, where his vision, skills, and passing can create chances for others and himself.

“I love watching him play, and I have no doubt he has the quality to succeed at Liverpool if used correctly in central midfield with people in front of him creating chances for others, creating chances for himself.

“I love this player and I know he’s good enough to play for Liverpool and he’s good enough to help them to come back to the level they have been. So no doubt about that, but he has to play in the right position.”

Is Alexander Isak Staying Fit the Key to Florian Wirtz’s Form?

“When Alexander Isak played for Borussia Dortmund, he struggled to perform, but then he ended up at Newcastle and was unbelievable. People were really surprised by how much he developed there.

“After moving to Liverpool, he faced a few injury setbacks, but if he stays fully fit playing alongside Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola, that could form a massive attacking threat for Liverpool.

“Isak has started well and he could be central to that attacking force under Andoni Iraola, it’s really promising.”

What Do You Make of Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez at Liverpool Right Now?

“The full-back role is one of the most demanding positions in modern football. You’re expected to push forward, cross, and support attack, while also being a top-class defender against skillful, fast wingers.

“It’s a really tough position, so people shouldn’t be overly critical. I don’t view Frimpong or Kerkez negatively at all, they both have what it takes.

“Frimpong can provide a huge attacking boost for Liverpool, and Kerkez is a solid, reliable full-back. Both are good options, it’s not time to think about replacing them, they need to be backed.”

Jeltsch, Schade & Young Players Should Wait

Ziege on Finn Jeltsch, Kevin Schade and Why Young Players Should Wait

Stuttgart’s Finn Jeltsch Is Attracting Liverpool Interest – What Can You Tell Us About Him?

“It’s quite difficult. I think it’s always better to play a couple of years at your club when you come through, especially if it’s a team where you’re successful and have the chance to prove yourself consistently and gain experience.

“Moving abroad or changing clubs too early can be risky because you never know what will happen under different circumstances. Even moving within Germany to a team like Bayern Munich brings a completely new environment, new coach, new city, everything.

“Going abroad adds language, culture, and mentality changes that can affect the way you play.

“When you change clubs, anything can happen. Obviously, there are exceptional players who can adapt anywhere, like Florian Wirtz moving from Leverkusen to Liverpool, but everything is still new, especially the people around the club, the crowd, the local culture, and the manager’s tactical style.

“If you aren’t playing in your preferred position, you might suddenly struggle to perform at your best. That’s why you really need to think carefully about whether you can handle the transition. Give yourself time to adapt to a new country and mindset.

“It is always better to build your confidence over two or three full seasons playing at a high level before moving on. Playing just a handful of games before making a big move is often too early, young players might play five or six good games and instantly be hailed as heroes, only to face huge struggles the following season.

“When you first break through as a young player, you play instinctively without overthinking, setting a high benchmark for yourself. But once that standard is set, people start expecting it constantly. I think Jeltsch should stay where he is for now.”

Would Kevin Schade Be a Perfect Signing for Liverpool in January?

“ Kevin Schade is definitely making progress. He’s been at Brentford for about three years, performing well and playing regularly, but moving in January might be too early.

“Young players need consistent starting roles and performance before making the next big step. Once you are starting consistently in big matches for Brentford and delivering every week, then you’re ready for a step up to a club like Liverpool.”

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