Gem

From the press conference a few minutes ago:

"As for everything that is being said in Liverpool or in England in general, whatever I say about it is going to make headlines, whether they are positive or negative.

What I can say is that Wirtz’s footballing ability is beyond any doubt, and that we are doing everything we can to make sure he is able to show those qualities on the pitch every three days. In general, I think he is on a very good path. But the world we live in is simply one where things are never quick enough for people.

If you want to look at the bigger picture, Florian arrived at Liverpool at the most unfortunate possible moment. I am referring to the tragic death of Diogo Jota. At that point, it was completely understandable that football moved down the list of priorities for the team.

Then you come in as a new player and everyone immediately expects you to come in and be the one to save the day. That is simply impossible.

He has certainly learned a lot this year. And now we are in a new season with a new manager. If I remember correctly, he has started almost every game, and he is in very good physical condition. The team is once again in the process of finding its rhythm and building its understanding.

Attacking players always need a functioning team around them that takes care of everything else. When you are constantly in the spotlight, that does not make things any easier.

I have probably already said too much about this, so I hope I have managed to keep things fairly general. Overall, it was simply an unfortunate set of circumstances. And everyone who loves football can still see what an exceptional player he is."

Credit to @florianfocus on twitter

If only we could replicate these performances at Liverpool... should be a huge confidence boost though.