Jurgen Klopp takes special interest in Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz

Jurgen Klopp has taken an unusually hands-on interest in Florian Wirtz’s development, with the former Liverpool manager regularly contacting the Germany international and informally helping to coach him, according to journalist Christian Falk.

Wirtz, 23, has faced criticism in England for his performances since joining Liverpool, but his displays for Germany have remained impressive. His progress under Klopp, 59, was discussed on Bild’s Lage der Liga programme, which also examined the midfielder’s technical qualities and his relationship with the German coach.

The programme featured Joachim Low, the former Germany manager who led the country to the 2014 World Cup, Bild football editor Christian Falk, deputy editor Walter M. Straten and presenter Philipp Thiel.

Low recalled giving Wirtz his first Germany call-up in March 2021, when the player was 17. He said it was already clear that Wirtz possessed the exceptional potential to become one of football’s leading players if he continued developing at the same rate.

Jamal Musiala received his first Germany call-up around the same time, ahead of Euro 2021, as part of an expanded squad. Wirtz, however, did not play at that tournament.

Low said Wirtz had stood out from the beginning for his understanding of space, his movement and his ability to read the game. The former Germany manager highlighted the midfielder’s positioning and decision-making, arguing that his influence extended beyond what he could do with the ball.

In particular, Low described Wirtz as one of the best players at moving without possession. His technical ability, creativity and control were also among his strengths, while his movement into deeper areas could create significant gaps in an opponent’s defence and give team-mates opportunities to exploit them.

Falk then outlined the extent of Klopp’s involvement in Wirtz’s current development. He said Wirtz would be central to Klopp’s plans, adding that the coach had placed considerable trust in the player and was giving him direct guidance. Falk said Klopp was effectively coaching Wirtz on an unofficial basis at present.

Klopp continues to watch Liverpool matches regularly because of his previous connection with the club. Falk said he sends Wirtz messages and speaks to him by phone after every Liverpool game.

According to information Falk received from inside Liverpool, Klopp speaks to Wirtz more often than the player’s current club coach, Andoni Iraola. Falk presented that as evidence of the importance Klopp attaches to Wirtz within his project.

He also believes Wirtz will perform better for Liverpool if he is given greater responsibility. Falk said Klopp was already offering him that trust and freedom, suggesting the midfielder’s expected role extends beyond simply contributing on the pitch to taking greater responsibility for shaping play and influencing matches.