Florian Wirtz has been criticised for his performance in Germany’s shock 2–0 defeat to Slovakia in their first 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Liverpool’s new attacking midfielder has made a tame beginning to the 2025–26 season following his £116 million ($155.9 million) move from Bayer Leverkusen, failing to register a goal contribution in his opening three Premier League matches and generally looking off the pace.
The international period appeared the perfect opportunity for Wirtz to rediscover some form in a more familiar environment, but Germany’s stunning loss to Slovakia is unlikely to boost his confidence.
Wirtz was not the only underperformer for Die Mannschaft, but he was unable to avoid the scrutiny of the German media after the full-time whistle.






