Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has defended Liverpool attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz after the £116million summer signing was criticised for his performances at the World Cup. Wirtz started all three group games for Germany, providing assists in the 7-1 victory over Curacao and the surprise 2-1 loss to Ecuador. However, pundits back in Germany have expressed dissatisfaction with the standard of his displays, as well as those of fellow creative force Jamal Musiala.
Nagelsmann backs Wirtz to break through
Speaking ahead of Germany's round of 32 tie against Paraguay on Monday, Nagelsmann said: "Flo was very committed and gave it his all. He's lacking luck. He had two or three top-notch dribbles in the penalty area. He's missing the goal." The Germany boss is convinced that Wirtz just needs a goal to get up and running in the tournament. Nagelsmann also addressed Musiala's form, noting that the Bayern Munich star has been out for a year. "We all know what he's capable of. We have to coax it out of him. The breakthrough (for Musiala and Wirtz) will definitely come on Monday," he added.
Germany face Paraguay in knockout stage
Germany's loss to Ecuador, despite taking an early lead through Leroy Sane, drew heavy scrutiny for Nagelsmann. Reflecting on the defeat, he said: "It's important that we learn from our experiences. I would have made different substitutions if we still needed a win." Now, Germany must beat Paraguay to set up a last 16 clash against either tournament favourites France or Sweden. Nagelsmann urged his side to "dribble forward with confidence" and give their all to reach the next round.
Wirtz endured a testing first season at Liverpool following his record move from Bayer Leverkusen, but Nagelsmann remains confident in his abilities. The 23-year-old has shown flashes of his talent in Germany's campaign, and the head coach believes a goal will unlock his full potential.
