German football legend Oliver Kahn believes Wirtz can mature through the difficulties at Liverpool, a view shared by Michael Ballack.

Wirtz has struggled to find form at Liverpool, but he performs freely with the German national team. After Germany defeated Serbia last Thursday, Wirtz impressed and will captain the side in Sunday's match against Greece. Kahn told RTL that Klopp's decision to appoint the most experienced player in the squad as captain was "absolutely right."

"How many difficulties has Wirtz faced in his career so far? How many tough moments must a young man like him go through?" Kahn asked. He added, "We always talk about character. How do you develop character? Character is forged through adversity."

Although Wirtz has yet to fully recover his form in his second season in England and faces constant criticism from the local media, Kahn remains supportive. Kahn believes Wirtz could have taken the easier path and joined a different club, but chose to persevere in his current environment. Kahn praised him, saying: "Those who overcome these challenges will become players of character for the national team, and others can feel that."

Kahn's former Germany teammate Michael Ballack expressed a similar view: "This is also part of becoming a top player—going through ups and downs and emerging stronger." Ballack stated that playing attractive football alone is not enough: "Just participating in matches, or occasionally executing heel flicks and short passes, is insufficient." He believes Wirtz has the mental toughness to overcome his current situation.

Wirtz has made 6 appearances for Liverpool this season, contributing just 1 assist, and recent assessments from the English media have been largely unfavorable. Ballack, who spent many years at Chelsea, said: "The media there is brutal and unforgiving. They often use a sarcastic and cynical tone, smiling while criticizing you. You have to understand that when you're in the eye of the storm, this criticism can sometimes go too far. At this level, you must be able to endure that."

In the 2-0 victory over Serbia, Wirtz excelled, directly contributing to both goals. Before the away match against Greece, Klopp stated that the half-space is Wirtz's most valuable position, and the left half-space of the midfield line is the "perfect spot" for him. In the Greece match, Wirtz will continue to play in midfield alongside Aleksandar Pavlovic and Bischoff.

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