Boniface backs Wirtz to deliver for Liverpool

Victor Boniface has voiced strong support for his former Bayer Leverkusen teammate Florian Wirtz, expressing confidence that the young German star will soon hit his stride at Liverpool despite a challenging start to life in the Premier League.

Wirtz, who joined Liverpool in the summer for a fee that could rise to a British record £116 million with add-ons, has yet to score in 15 appearances across all competitions this season.

Still, Boniface believes his former teammate has the talent and temperament to thrive under new manager Arne Slot.

‘Don’t worry, you guys will enjoy him soon,’ Boniface told Flashscore during a roundtable hosted by Werder Bremen. ‘We all know how brilliant the guy is. I understand why there’s a lot of talk coming. But trust me, Flo is a wonderful guy and player.’

The duo were instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic 2023/24 campaign under Xabi Alonso, where the club went unbeaten in the Bundesliga for the first time ever, won the DFB-Pokal, and reached the Europa League final. Wirtz was the creative engine of that side, contributing 11 goals and 11 assists in the league, while Boniface led the line with flair and precision.

Wirtz’s move to Anfield was seen as a strategic effort by Liverpool to inject fresh creativity into their attack. However, the 22-year-old has struggled to adapt to the pace and physical demands of English football. Despite showing glimpses of his technical brilliance, he’s yet to make a decisive impact.

Boniface remains optimistic: ‘He is hardworking, and soon people will see the real him. He will deliver, and I am rooting for him.’

Wirtz will have another opportunity to showcase his talent when Liverpool face Manchester City in a Premier League clash on Sunday.

The Reds enter the match buoyed by a midweek Champions League win over Real Madrid, and fans will be eager to see if Wirtz can channel his Leverkusen form on one of football’s biggest stages.