Hugo Ekitike was an interesting signing as Arne Slot thought they couldn’t get Alexander Isak in the summer. Liverpool paid £69m to transfer the player’s contract from Frankfurt.
Interestingly, as Slot and Co. later found out, their pursuit of Isak wasn’t for nought as deadline day proved both lucky and unlucky for the Merseysiders.
Marc Guéhi was expected to make a move to Anfield. Unfortunately for the Reds, Crystal Palace blocked the move in the 11th hour of the summer transfer window.
On the contrary, Isak made a record-breaking £125m move from Newcastle United. Now, Arne Slot was left with two world-class strikers and a problem of selection.
The Dutch boss isn’t worried yet, as the Reds’ Swedish striker isn’t back to normal fitness yet. The 26-year-old footballer went on a strike as the Magpies wouldn’t let him go.
Isak didn’t train or play for Newcastle United after making it clear that he wasn’t interested in continuing his career at St. James Park.
The Tyneside outfit didn’t have any choice but to sell their prized gem to Liverpool. Ekitike was actually meant to be Isak’s replacement for the Toons, but the Reds had already captured him as backup.
Nonetheless, the French striker did face criticism as his role became uncertain following Isak’s arrival from St. James Park.
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“It was my choice” – Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike
Hugo Ekitike says his choice was clear after Liverpool’s interest (Credits: Imago Images)
Despite having the option to be the starting No.9 at Newcastle United, Ekitike chose the harder path and made his move to Anfield.
“It was my choice, it’s what I wanted. Because I had more of a feeling coming here, and I knew it was the right time and the right place for me. I wanted to get back to the top level and come back this time better equipped, more ready in all aspects.”
In talks with Canal+, the Frenchman was also asked about the pressure that comes with being the most expensive striker in his nation’s history.
“And I don’t think I made a mistake. I don’t care. I’m just focused on the game. Outside, everyone can talk about the transfer price. It is what it is. Football has changed. You have a big transfer on your back? Play football.”
“Obviously, seen from the outside, it can be shocking, but it doesn’t shock me. I was in a dynamic where I was also making good stats last year, and I’m in a good team that seems good to me. I want to be a player who has consistency”, Ekitike told Canal+.
