Florian Wirtz has given Germany a timely reminder of his quality, scoring in Thursday’s 2-0 victory over Serbia after a difficult spell for both club and country.
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The 23-year-old Liverpool forward was central to Germany’s win, finding the net and hitting the post with an effort that led to the opening goal. His performance brought an extended embrace from Germany coach Jürgen Klopp at full time, with television cameras capturing the pair from close range.
Wirtz could not recall the exact words Klopp offered him, but said the new Germany manager has made his intentions clear.
“We have spoken a few times,” Wirtz said. “He wants me to play the football people are used to seeing from me.”
That means the quick combinations, changes of direction and dribbling that made him one of Bayer Leverkusen’s standout players. Those qualities had become less visible during recent months, following his €136m move to Liverpool in the summer of 2025.
Wirtz had not delivered the influence or decisive moments expected of him during his final difficult season, either with Liverpool or Germany. Klopp, however, believes the forward is beginning to regain confidence and inspiration.
“Everyone at Liverpool must be happy after that display,” Klopp said after the Serbia match. “I do not think so many English Liverpool supporters have watched Germany before. They will have enjoyed seeing a young player shining, working extremely hard.”
Klopp, who previously managed Liverpool, has placed significant faith in Wirtz and sees him as a potential leading figure for the national team.
Germany’s next appointment in Greece
Germany travel to Greece on Sunday evening, with kick-off scheduled for 20:45. Wirtz is expected to start again after his display against Serbia.
The absence of experienced figures including Joshua Kimmich and Serge Gnabry could give the Liverpool player an even greater responsibility. Wirtz wore the captain’s armband when Gnabry left the field against Serbia, and he may be handed it again in Greece.
For Klopp, it would represent another public sign of trust in a player he believes can become Germany’s principal attacking asset.
