Ekitike’s Electric Start Powers Liverpool Ambitions
Hugo Ekitike’s impact at Liverpool has gathered pace with an authority that mirrors the club’s broader momentum under Arne Slot. Arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer, the French striker has settled swiftly into Premier League life, translating promise into production with impressive efficiency.
His recent quickfire double in the 4-1 victory over Newcastle United underlined both his composure and his instinct inside the penalty area. That brace moved Ekitike to 15 goals in all competitions this season, a return that has strengthened Liverpool’s attacking depth while reinforcing belief that the No.22 can become a central figure in the club’s next era of success.
With major honours still in Liverpool’s sights and a World Cup looming on the horizon, Ekitike’s focus remains firmly locked on collective achievement as much as personal growth.
Trophy Drive and World Cup Dream
When asked about his objectives for the calendar year, Ekitike’s response reflected both ambition and clarity.
“Probably [to] achieve something big with Liverpool, so win a trophy.
“Personally, just keep doing what I’m doing actually. And go to the World Cup with the national team. That would be special, very special.”
Those words capture a player grounded in process yet motivated by silverware. At Liverpool, expectation is woven into daily life. Ekitike appears energised rather than burdened by that reality, embracing the opportunity to contribute to a title winning squad still hungry for further success.
Dressing Room Bonds and Early Support
Settling into a new club can define a player’s trajectory. For Ekitike, that transition was eased by familiar language and open personalities within the Liverpool dressing room.
“Ibou [Konate]. I have to say Ibou obviously. He spoke in French to me and explained everything about the club, the people. I have to say, everybody really welcomed me well. Jeremie [Frimpong], Kostas Tsimikas but obviously he is not here anymore. He was really good with me, we talked a lot. But kind of everybody.”
Such connections matter. Konate’s guidance, alongside support from team mates across the squad, accelerated Ekitike’s adaptation to both club culture and city life. Liverpool’s dressing room has long thrived on unity, and the striker’s comments reinforce the sense of collective responsibility that underpins performances on the pitch.
He expanded on that environment when discussing integration behind the scenes.
“I have really good teammates, it’s kind of easy. They are really open to talk. I kind of talk to everybody. They help me in every way. We don’t see each other much outside of the pitch and outside of the training ground and games, but it’s always good times when you’re training and games. They are a really good group of guys.”
Inspirations, Influences and Playing Style
Like many modern forwards, Ekitike’s game has been shaped by elite role models.
“I have two. I would say Neymar and Karim Benzema are the players that impressed me the most and I was watching the most when I was at home. So I would say those two. Really good football players to watch with assists, goals. [Benzema] because he played the same position and I love the way he plays, he’s a really good football player to watch. He does assists, goals and he plays for the team. That’s what I’m expecting to become.”
That blend of flair and functionality is evident in Ekitike’s Liverpool performances. He links play, attacks space and presses with intent, traits essential in Slot’s fluid attacking system.
Adapting to England’s top flight has demanded physical and mental growth.
“Probably the intensity and the number of games we play. And always the highest intensity and level. You can’t play a Premier League game and be at 60 per cent of yourself because you’ll get bullied and you’ll do nothing. So you need to be ready physically, mentally every three days, every week to play every game.”
Life in Liverpool On and Off Pitch
Ekitike’s connection with the city continues to evolve, even if the local dialect remains a work in progress.
“I love it but honestly, it’s too difficult for me! But I like it. I’m training, let’s do it after one full season. I will try to speak it more maybe next season. This season, focus more on football.”
His decision to join Liverpool, however, required little deliberation.
“First of all because they are champions last season. You can join the best team in England. How can you say no? And obviously the players, the style of play. I saw myself playing in this team, I was thinking it would look really good. For me that was the best choice. Really easy [decision].”
Away from football, balance comes through simple pleasures.
“I like music, I like clothes, I like basketball and American football. I watch a lot of stuff, listen to a lot of stuff, play games with my family. There’s so many things I can do to switch off from football.”
Even humour surfaces when discussing positional versatility.
“One hundred per cent Ali as a striker! I’m terrible [in goal], I could never. Never!”
As Liverpool chase further honours, Ekitike’s goals, personality and ambition position him as a forward growing in stature, one determined to leave a lasting imprint at Anfield.
