Hugo Ekitike: Liverpool’s New Forward Embracing Arne Slot’s Reign
Hugo Ekitike’s arrival at Liverpool feels like more than just another transfer. It’s the right move at the right time. The 23-year-old French striker has joined the reigning Premier League champions under the guidance of Arne Slot, and for Ekitike, everything about the moment feels just right.
“I feel very proud. Obviously it’s a big, big club. I’m just excited, I’m a bit like a kid,” he said during his first interview since signing from Eintracht Frankfurt. “To play for Liverpool is a big, big good feeling for me.”
Having flourished in the Bundesliga, where he first joined Frankfurt on loan before making the move permanent, Ekitike is now stepping into one of the biggest clubs in world football. He’s landed in a team hungry to defend its domestic crown and push further in Europe, and his ambition matches that intensity.
Fresh Start with Arne Slot
Slot’s impact since taking over from Jurgen Klopp has been profound. Winning the Premier League in his debut season, the Dutchman has created an atmosphere that’s both ambitious and grounded. That made all the difference for Ekitike.
“We had a very good first discussion together,” he explained. “The coach is very human… I find him very interesting and I was very pleased to see what I can do with him. I think he is a really nice guy and I can still improve and progress with him.”
Slot’s reputation for developing talent made Liverpool an irresistible destination for Ekitike. “When you see a coach that can make and improve players, you know you want to be with him and progress.”
Settling in Among Champions
Ekitike didn’t waste time. Within 48 hours of signing, he had landed in Hong Kong, met his new teammates, and trained in the Liverpool kit. Despite the jet lag, the forward embraced the whirlwind with calm enthusiasm. “I live day by day so I enjoy every time I have here.”
He’s aware of the level required at Liverpool and the quality already in the squad. “It’s just a pleasure to play with such good players. I want to do more to be at the same level and even better.”
With Liverpool continuing to strengthen their ranks this summer, Ekitike knows competition will be fierce, but that’s exactly what drives him. “This summer transfer window was great for the club, they bring so much quality… I think the team will be better, I’m sure about that.”
From Street Football to Anfield Lights
Ekitike’s style is rooted in his past. “I always have been playing outside with my friends at school… I like to play with the ball and do some skills when I face other players. It’s just my way to play.”
It’s that flair, that instinct, that caught the eye of Liverpool’s recruitment team. And while he’s excited about his new role, his humility stands out. “I do what the coach asks me to do… I like to be in the game, in the collective part of play… I think that’s what makes me versatile.”
Ekitike never got to watch Liverpool regularly as a kid. “You need to pay and I couldn’t pay,” he laughed. But he knew the name, and he knew the dream. A photo of him wearing a vintage Gerrard shirt on holiday now feels almost prophetic.
Ready for the Roar of Anfield
“It’s the best team in England and one of the best teams in the world,” he said, echoing Virgil van Dijk’s sentiment: “It was always Liverpool.”
And now, standing on the brink of a new chapter, he’s eager for that first Anfield goal. “I can’t wait to play there… It’s crazy: crazy stadium and crazy fans.”
Hugo Ekitike is here, ready to fight for trophies, grow under Arne Slot, and light up Liverpool’s future.
