Liverpool’s new summer signing, Hugo Ekitike, has made a dream start to life at Anfield. The French forward wasted no time making an impact, scoring in each of his first three appearances for The Reds. His arrival has injected fresh energy into Liverpool’s attack and raised expectations among fans that he could be the missing piece in their chase for Premier League glory.
Liverpool’s Attack Gets a New Face
The summer of 2025 was a crucial transfer window for Liverpool. After a mixed season where consistency in front of goal was often questioned, Arne Slot and the recruitment team reshaped their attacking options.
Darwin Núñez, who arrived from Benfica with high hopes, struggled to deliver consistently since his big-money move. While there were flashes of brilliance, Liverpool wanted a more reliable finisher. Initially, the club had been heavily linked with Alexander Isak from Newcastle United. However, the scouting department had also been monitoring Hugo Ekitike, who had been impressive with Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga.
At just 23 years old, the striker had already shown he could combine pace, strength, and clinical finishing at the highest level. Liverpool were convinced of his potential and sealed the deal for a reported €80 million fee.
Community Shield Debut: Instant Impact
Ekitike’s first taste of English football came in the Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace on August 10, 2025. Given a starting role, he wasted no time introducing himself to the Liverpool faithful.
Just four minutes into the game, Ekitike latched onto a pass from Florian Wirtz on the left flank, cut inside with confidence, and unleashed a low strike from outside the penalty box. The ball nestled into the bottom corner, giving Liverpool an early lead and sending fans into raptures.
Although Liverpool eventually lost on penalties after a 1-1 draw, the spotlight was firmly on Ekitike. Head coach Arne Slot praised his performance, noting both his sharpness and the need to protect him physically as he had joined the squad late during pre-season.
“He gave us a lot of energy,” Slot said post-match. “But I didn’t want to risk him playing 90 minutes so soon. He will be very important for us.”
Premier League Debut: Goal and Assist vs Bournemouth
Ekitike carried that momentum into the Premier League opener against Bournemouth at Anfield on August 16, 2025. Starting once again, he found life difficult early on as the Cherries’ defense limited his space. But class always finds a way.
Just before half-time, the Frenchman broke the deadlock, finishing calmly inside the box after a clever through-ball from Alexis Mac Allister. In the second half, he turned provider, setting up Cody Gakpo for Liverpool’s second goal.
Liverpool eventually ran out 4-2 winners, and Ekitike earned plaudits for his composure and intelligence in attack. Despite the hype, he remained grounded.
“I know I can do much more,” Ekitike said in an interview with Liverpool’s official website. “It’s just the beginning, and I want to keep improving to help the team. My best is yet to come.”
Goal Machine Strikes Again at St James’ Park
The second league match was a far tougher test — a trip to St James’ Park to face an aggressive Newcastle United side. The Magpies pressed high and tried to isolate Liverpool’s new striker.
But quality players need just one chance. Midway through the game, Cody Gakpo slipped him a pass inside the box. With one quick touch and a precise finish into the bottom-right corner, Ekitike scored yet again. His goal doubled Liverpool’s lead to 2-0.
Although Newcastle fought back, Liverpool secured a 3-2 victory. Once again, Ekitike’s name was on the scoresheet, proving he could deliver in high-pressure away games.
Next Challenge: Arsenal Awaits
Ekitike’s blistering start has already made him a fan favorite at Anfield. Three games, three goals, and an assist — an almost perfect introduction to English football. But a bigger test looms on the horizon.
Liverpool are set to host Arsenal at Anfield on August 31, 2025, in what promises to be a blockbuster clash. The Gunners, with defensive stalwarts William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, are among the strongest teams in the league and considered genuine title contenders.
For Ekitike, this will be another opportunity to prove his worth against one of the best defenses in the Premier League. Fans are already asking: Can Hugo Ekitike make Arsenal his next victim?
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