Xabi Alonso has backed Florian Wirtz to succeed at Liverpool , saying it's "just a matter of time" before the £116 million star delivers at Anfield.

Playmaker Wirtz has faced criticism since joining in a high-profile deal from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, contributing no goals, and two assists, in 13 appearances so far in the Premier League and Champions League.

Former Liverpool player Alonso -- who coached Wirtz for three seasons at Leverkusen, including winning the 2024 Bundesliga title -- returns to Anfield on Tuesday, in charge of Real Madrid .

"I have no doubts, it's just a matter of time," Alonso said in a pre-match news conference on Monday, when asked about Wirtz. "It's a big chance for him, coming to Liverpool after so many years in Germany, and being there his who

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