Arne Slot Defends Florian Wirtz‘s adaptation to Liverpool, Cites Ryan gravenberch’s experience
Liverpool manager Arne slot has dismissed suggestions that florian Wirtz is struggling due to a lack of effort, rather attributing any initial difficulties to the increased intensity of the premier League. Slot highlighted the challenges of adjusting to a new league, especially with a demanding schedule of games played with limited rest.
Speaking in a press conference, Slot acknowledged Wirtz has started only one of Liverpool’s last four matches, but pointed out he has featured in eight to eleven games this season. He explained the congested fixture list - frequently enough three games in seven days with only two days’ rest - contributes to the adjustment period for players arriving from other leagues.
“for a player who comes from a different league - which is a very good league by the way – nine out of 10 people would agree the Premier League is a bit more intense, especially in all the games,” Slot stated. “If you look at that then he already played a lot.”
Slot emphasized Wirtz’s positive impact despite a lack of consistent goal contributions,noting he has “created a lot for the team.” He further reasoned that a period of adaptation is normal for young players transitioning to a new environment.
“He will have his goals but I don’t think it comes as a surprise to anyone that if you’re 22 or 23 and come to a different league that you might need some time to adjust to that intensity if you play every three days, with only two days’ rest in between,” Slot said.
The manager drew a parallel to Ryan Gravenberch‘s own adaptation period,suggesting Wirtz’s transition may be smoother. “Before, Ryan Gravenberch was sitting here and it took him a while to adjust to the intensity, maybe even longer than it is going to take Florian.”
