Florian Wirtz made a surprise pick when asked to name a Liverpool team-mate who has impressed him most since his £117 million move from Bayer Leverkusen. The German playmaker, who lit up the Bundesliga with 57 goals and 62 assists in 197 outings, was the heartbeat of Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen side that stormed to a historic unbeaten title in 2023-24.

Wirtz yet to find his feet at Anfield

Since swapping the BayArena for Merseyside, Wirtz has found it harder to impose himself. Beyond an assist on his Community Shield debut against Crystal Palace, the attacking midfielder has yet to register another goal contribution in Liverpool colours. Additionally, the massive price tag, a star-studded squad, and fierce competition for places in midfield have only complicated matters. 

AdvertisementGetty Images SportWirtz throws in a surprise

Wirtz shares a dressing room with the Egyptian king, Mohamed Salah, the Dutch colossus Virgil van Dijk and record £125 million arrival Alexander Isak. Yet, when pressed on who had caught his eye the most, Wirtz delivered a name few expected: Ryan Gravenberch.

In an interview with he said: "The one who's playing very, very well at the moment is Gravenberch. He's standing out at the moment."

Gravenberch firing on all cylinders

Gravenberch was the difference-maker in the Merseyside derby last week. Not only did he score the opener in the 2-1 win against Everton, but he also threaded the perfect pass for Hugo Ekitike’s decisive strike. To underline his all-action display, Gravenberch topped the match stats with five successful tackles; more than anyone else on the pitch.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty Images SportBench blow fuels Wirtz's hunger

Wirtz himself had to endure the frustration of being dropped to the bench for that same derby clash. Liverpool edged out Everton, but watching from the sidelines only sharpened the German’s determination to reclaim his place. With a crucial Premier League trip to Crystal Palace looming this Saturday, the 22-year-old will be desperate to show Slot why he deserves to be restored to the XI.