Florian Wirtz’s start to life at Liverpool has been far from the explosive impact many fans expected. The German playmaker, who arrived with a massive reputation and a record transfer fee, has yet to score or provide an assist in his eleven appearances for the club.
Head coach Arne Slot has urged patience, insisting that Wirtz’s adaptation will take time. “We believe in Florian’s talent and intelligence on the ball,” Slot said recently. “He’s still adjusting to the intensity of English football, but his quality is undeniable.”
Despite those reassurances, Liverpool’s attack continues to show signs of imbalance — particularly on the left flank following the departure of Luis Díaz. Slot has experimented by deploying Wirtz on the left wing in recent matches, but the results have highlighted a clear mismatch in style. The 21-year-old excels in central areas where he can dictate play, not as a wide runner reliant on pace and direct dribbling.
This has reignited speculation about Liverpool’s growing interest in Real Madrid star Rodrygo. The Brazilian winger, known for his blistering acceleration, sharp technique, and big-game scoring pedigree — especially in the Champions League — could be the ideal fit for Slot’s system. At just 24, Rodrygo offers both proven quality and room for further development, making him an appealing long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain.
However, such a move would raise difficult questions. Would Liverpool be willing to sacrifice Wirtz, a player they’ve heavily invested in, to secure Rodrygo? And would Real Madrid even consider parting with a player they view as central to their post-Benzema evolution?
A potential swap deal involving Wirtz and Rodrygo would undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about transfers of 2026. It could reshape not only Liverpool’s attack but also shift the balance between two of Europe’s most powerful clubs.
For now, Liverpool fans will hope that Wirtz can rediscover the spark that made him one of Europe’s brightest young talents — before the club is forced to make a monumental decision about the future of its forward line.
