Liverpool’s recent update on Florian Wirtz has raised new doubts about his availability in the coming weeks. Manager Arne Slot indicated that Tuesday’s away match against Wolverhampton Wanderers is likely too soon for the No. 7 to return.
The 22-year-old has already missed recent victories against Nottingham Forest and West Ham after suffering a back issue during the pre-match warm-up at the City Ground. What initially seemed like a minor problem has now extended longer than expected, and the club is hesitant to rush his recovery.
At the AXA Training Centre on Monday morning, Slot stated there hasn’t been any significant progress since the weekend. “There’s nothing new compared to what I mentioned after Saturday’s game,” the 47-year-old explained when asked about Wirtz ahead of the Wolves match.
He suggested that the playmaker might also be unavailable for Friday’s Emirates FA Cup rematch against the same team, potentially leaving Liverpool without one of their key creative players for two weeks.
“Tomorrow’s match will likely be too soon, and perhaps the one at the weekend as well. We’ll have to see how things develop.”
Despite the uncertainty, Slot provided a glimmer of hope by outlining a tentative timeline for Wirtz’s return. “We hope to see him back sometime next week—maybe a little sooner or a bit later—but that’s the general timeframe we’re looking at.”
This information will impact how the team manages their busy schedule, as Liverpool juggles Premier League and cup commitments. Slot has previously noted the unpredictable nature of Wirtz’s back injury.
After the win against West Ham, he had initially expected Wirtz to be available, but the situation changed unexpectedly, making this latest update somewhat concerning. The pattern has involved shifting timelines for recovery.
Wirtz has participated in 25 Premier League games this season, starting 21 and averaging around 74 minutes per match, highlighting Slot’s reliance on him to orchestrate attacks.
Data from SofaScore underscores his influence beyond mere goal counts: four league goals (from an xG of 5.70), two assists (with an xA of 4.13), along with significant contributions in creating big chances and key passes.
The concern goes beyond just the Wolves match; it impacts the team’s upcoming fixtures. With a European commitment on the horizon, the club may prioritize caution over risking an earlier return.
Slot has consistently emphasized that no player can perform effectively in the Premier League without being fully fit. This update reflects the club’s commitment to this principle regarding Wirtz, even if it results in a longer absence than initially anticipated.
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