Hugo Ekitike leading Liverpool’s new attacking narrative under Slot

Hugo Ekitike has quickly emerged as the most productive of Liverpool’s 2025 summer arrivals, shaping the early attacking story of Arne Slot’s side. With eight goals across all competitions, the French forward goes into the weekend as Liverpool’s leading scorer, setting the tempo in a season where the margins at the top remain unforgiving.

While Alexander Isak continues to wrestle with fitness and consistency, Ekitike’s output has brought clarity to Liverpool’s forward line. His movement between the lines, willingness to run channels and ability to combine at speed have added thrust to Slot’s evolving system. Wayne Rooney recently underlined that impact, labelling the Liverpool number nine “brilliant”, praise that reflects growing recognition beyond Anfield.

Slot’s demands remain high despite strong returns

For all the goals and acclaim, Slot’s message around Ekitike has been consistent. Development never pauses, even when the numbers look healthy. Speaking at the beginning of November, the Liverpool manager highlighted a specific area for growth, focusing on physical authority rather than finishing instinct.

He said: “That is what makes him [Ekitike] special, if you’re that tall and your footwork is as good as his.

“That’s what makes him special, if you’re so tall, he needs to be stronger in duels.”

Slot’s framing matters. This is not a critique of effort, but an invitation to become more complete. In a league where aerial battles often decide territory and momentum, Liverpool need their central forwards to hold their own when the game turns direct.

Aerial growth and tactical flexibility

Ekitike’s aerial work has become a recurring theme, particularly as Slot experiments with shape and rhythm. In his pre-Brighton press conference, the Liverpool head coach acknowledged progress, while making clear that improvement remains ongoing.

He said: “I don’t think height tells you a player is perfectly equipped for that direct style. Some are tall and struggle, others aren’t and dominate. Alex and Hugo, you can better use them in behind than long balls into their body.

“I see Hugo trying to do this better and better, but there’s room for improvement as there is with so many parts of our games.”

This nuance reflects Slot’s broader tactical thinking. Height alone does not guarantee dominance, timing, balance and anticipation often matter more. Yet as Liverpool face compact defences more regularly, especially at Anfield, the ability to vary approach becomes crucial.

Unlocking new options for Liverpool’s attack

Against Inter Milan, Slot’s use of a 4-4-2 diamond hinted at where Ekitike’s development could unlock further strengths. With play funnelled centrally and Mohamed Salah absent, Liverpool found greater scope to mix short combinations with longer passes. It was not about abandoning identity, but expanding it.

For that evolution to succeed, Ekitike and potentially Isak must continue to sharpen their aerial presence. Not every opponent can be pulled apart on the floor. Sometimes the direct route opens doors, particularly against low blocks designed to suffocate space.

Ekitike’s early return suggests Liverpool have secured a forward capable of growing with the team. Under Slot, improvement is both expectation and opportunity. If the Frenchman marries his technical quality with greater physical authority, Liverpool’s attack could gain an edge that proves decisive across a long season.