Liverpool’s summer overhaul is beginning to bear fruit, with Hugo Ekitike emerging as a key figure in their attack. The French striker, who arrived at Anfield amidst interest from Newcastle United, has quickly silenced any doubts about his ability to contribute, currently boasting 15 goals in all competitions.
Ekitike revealed that choosing Liverpool over Newcastle was an easy decision. First of all because they are champions last season,
he said in an interview with Sky Sports. You can join the best team in England. How can you say no?
The forward also cited the quality of the players and the attractive style of play as factors in his decision. 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).
The circumstances surrounding Ekitike and Alexander Isak’s moves were unusual. Newcastle initially targeted Ekitike as a replacement for Isak, but ultimately ended up selling Isak to Liverpool, with both forwards subsequently joining the Anfield club. This twist of fate has proven beneficial for Liverpool, who now possess a dynamic attacking duo.
Ekitike’s impact was particularly evident in last week’s 4-1 victory over Newcastle, where he scored twice. His burgeoning partnership with fellow summer signing Florian Wirtz is proving particularly potent, with the pair combining for six goals – the most of any attacking combination in the top flight.
Team-mate Alexis Mac Allister highlighted the synergy between Ekitike and Wirtz. I think they complement each other really well,
Mac Allister said on the Liverpool website. They are both big talents and I think everyone can see their quality. We can notice that they love to play one-twos and these kind of things, which is really good because they can generate goals and assists in just a moment. So, I’m really pleased for them. I think they are showing how good they are.
Despite the positive contributions of Ekitike and Wirtz, Liverpool are still navigating a period of adjustment following a significant summer overhaul. The team experienced a slow start to the season as new players integrated into the squad, but recent performances suggest they are finding their rhythm.
However, a significant test awaits them on , when they host second-placed Manchester City at Anfield. Historically, matches between Liverpool and City have often been pivotal in the title race, but this season, with Arsenal leading the standings, the stakes are somewhat different. City are the only realistic challengers to Arsenal’s lead.
Mac Allister acknowledged City’s current form. They are in a good moment,
he said. They’re a really good team and they showed it against us at the Etihad (a 3-0 City win in November). I think we are a better team (than they were then) and we improved quite a lot from that game, but now we need to show it.
He emphasized the importance of home advantage and the team’s desire to deliver a strong performance for their fans. We have our fans with us, which is going to make things easier. We are really looking forward to this game and we want to win and show the fans what we can do.
The match against City represents an opportunity for Liverpool to demonstrate their progress and solidify their position among the league’s elite. While the title race may be beyond their reach this season, a victory over their closest rivals would send a clear message about their ambitions for the future. Ekitike’s continued form will be crucial to their success, and his decision to join the champions
appears to be paying dividends.
The evolving partnership between Ekitike and Wirtz is a key component of Liverpool’s attacking threat. Their ability to seamlessly combine and create scoring opportunities has quickly established them as one of the most dangerous duos in the league. As they continue to develop their understanding, their impact on Liverpool’s performances is only likely to grow.
Liverpool’s journey this season has been one of transition and adaptation. The summer overhaul presented challenges, but the emergence of players like Ekitike and Wirtz offers a glimpse of a promising future. The upcoming clash with Manchester City will be a stern test of their progress, but also a chance to showcase their potential to the rest of the league.
