Arne Slot, the Liverpool head coach, has set a high bar for the club's new record signing, Florian Wirtz, stating that the young German midfielder must reach the level of Mohamed Salah to meet the expectations at Anfield. Liverpool secured Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen this summer in a deal that could reach a British transfer record of £116 million. Wirtz is expected to make his Premier League debut against Bournemouth.

Slot acknowledged the high expectations surrounding Wirtz, who is considered a transformative signing. When asked if Wirtz was the signing to take Liverpool to the next level, Slot stated that he could only answer that question in the years to come. He emphasized the importance of fitness and consistency, pointing to players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah as examples of consistently fit players. Slot believes Wirtz needs to demonstrate that he can maintain that level of fitness in the Premier League.

Despite the pressure that comes with a record transfer fee, Slot isn't worried about how it will affect the 22-year-old midfielder. He lauded Wirtz's mentality as his "biggest strength", despite his creative brilliance on the field. Slot noted Wirtz's experience, highlighting his achievements in the Bundesliga and the German Cup with Leverkusen, as well as his numerous appearances for the German national team. He believes that Wirtz is mentally tough and won't be distracted by the transfer fee or anything else. Slot also joked that Wirtz won't need help finding a house because Liverpool has a player-care department.

Slot has been impressed with Wirtz's adaptation to Liverpool, stating that it has surpassed expectations. Wirtz has already scored his first goal for Liverpool during pre-season and displayed promising signs of a partnership with fellow newcomer Hugo Ekitike in the Community Shield. Slot also said that Wirtz needs help understanding the way Liverpool wants to play, although the system isn't drastically different from what Xabi Alonso demanded of him at Bayer Leverkusen.

Toni Kroos, the Germany and Real Madrid legend, has praised Wirtz, describing him as a "very special player". Kroos highlighted Wirtz's movement, touch, passing, finishing, and mentality. He also added that Wirtz has the conviction in his own qualities and radiates that.

While Wirtz's arrival has generated excitement, Slot is aware of the challenges that Liverpool faces in defending their Premier League title. He acknowledged the strength of their rivals and the need for the team to consistently perform at their best. Slot stated that the aim is not eight out of 10 times, it's 10 out of 10 times and that fine-tuning is still needed defensively.