Arne Slot has expressed strong confidence that Florian Wirtz will overcome an unwanted statistical trend when Liverpool face Manchester United, insisting the midfielder is ready to make an impact in one of the club’s biggest fixtures of the season.
Wirtz arrived at Liverpool as one of the marquee signings of the summer and, while his overall performances have steadily improved, there has been ongoing discussion about his output in matches against the Premier League’s top sides.
The German playmaker has struggled to consistently deliver goals or assists in high-profile fixtures so far this campaign, something that has drawn attention in the build-up to the trip to Old Trafford.
However, Slot has publicly dismissed any concerns, making it clear he fully expects that pattern to change.
Cool, calm and collected. Florian Wirtz ?
? @LFC pic.twitter.com/52btAYGMsA
— Premier League (@premierleague) April 24, 2026
Slot confident Wirtz will deliver in big games
Speaking ahead of the Manchester United fixture, Slot was asked about Wirtz’s record in matches against top opposition and whether it was something the coaching staff were monitoring closely.
The Liverpool boss responded with firm belief in his midfielder’s development and long-term trajectory.
“I don’t only hope that, I am 100% sure he will turn up,” Slot said when discussing Wirtz’s performances in big games.
He added that the upcoming run of fixtures presents the perfect opportunity for the midfielder to make a decisive impact.
Slot also pointed to Wirtz’s broader development since arriving at Anfield, highlighting the progress he has made in adapting to the Premier League’s intensity and tactical demands.
The scrutiny around Wirtz stems from his lack of decisive contributions against top-six opposition this season, with analysts noting that most of his best statistical output has come in other fixtures.
The scrutiny around Wirtz stems from his lack of decisive contributions against top-six opposition this season, with analysts noting that most of his best statistical output has come in other fixtures.
Despite that, Liverpool internally remain relaxed about his adaptation period, viewing his performances through a longer-term development lens rather than short-term output alone.
Slot has repeatedly stressed that Wirtz remains an elite talent who is still adjusting to a new league, new teammates and a different tactical system compared to his time in Germany.
