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Arsenal ace Havertz backs Liverpool's Wirtz against criticism

Β·By Paul Lindisfarne
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Arsenal ace Havertz backs Liverpool's Wirtz against criticism

Liverpool/X.com

Kai Havertz has come to the defence of Florian Wirtz, arguing that the Liverpool midfielder's contribution is being overlooked by critics who judge performances primarily through goals and assists.

Wirtz moved to Anfield from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth Β£100 million, with a further Β£16 million potentially payable in bonuses. The Germany international has faced scrutiny over his output since arriving in England, despite producing seven goals and eight assists in 49 appearances during his first season.

He has registered two goals and five assists in 15 appearances this campaign, but Havertz believes those figures do not tell the full story of his performances.

β€œI know how the English press reports things from time to time. I think he is playing very, very good football this season as well,” Havertz told Sky.

β€œHe is involved in the game, creates chances for his team-mates and poses a threat himself.”

Havertz knows Wirtz well from their time together at Leverkusen and has continued to follow his progress since the midfielder's move to Liverpool. The Arsenal forward was particularly emphatic when asked to assess his former club-mate's ability.

β€œI have seen him play very, very well many times over the past year and a half. For me, he is one of the best players I have ever played with,” he said.

The pair share a history at Leverkusen, where Wirtz emerged as one of Europe's most highly rated attacking midfielders. Havertz also came through the German club's system before moving to Chelsea and subsequently Arsenal.

His defence of Wirtz comes amid a wider debate about the midfielder's adaptation to English football and the expectations attached to his transfer fee. Liverpool invested heavily to bring him to the Premier League, and his performances have consequently been measured against the price paid as well as his creative influence.

Havertz believes that approach overlooks the work Wirtz does during matches, particularly his involvement in creating opportunities for others.

His own experience of moving to England gives him a perspective on the scrutiny facing a high-profile signing. Havertz has established himself at Arsenal after initially facing criticism following his arrival from Chelsea.

Wirtz, meanwhile, remains under contract at Liverpool until 2030. Havertz is convinced the midfielder will ultimately demonstrate his quality on a consistent basis.

The German added that Wirtz has the potential to become an outstanding player for the club and that he enjoys watching him perform.

β€œHe will definitely find his way and become a huge player for Liverpool,” Havertz said.