“I Could Have Done Better” – Hugo Ekitike Reflects on PSG Exit Ahead of Liverpool Move | OneFootball

Liverpool Close In on Hugo Ekitike as Luis Enrique’s Past Praise Resurfaces

Liverpool are edging towards securing the signature of Hugo Ekitike, with the French striker expected to arrive at Anfield within days. After failing to prise Alexander Isak away from Newcastle United, the Premier League champions quickly pivoted to Ekitike, whose remarkable resurgence at Eintracht Frankfurt has reignited his career.

Ekitike’s Journey from PSG Frustration to Frankfurt Flourish

Ekitike’s time at Paris Saint-Germain was anything but smooth. Signed from Reims for around £30 million in 2022, he managed only 33 appearances and four goals during a difficult 18-month spell. Christophe Galtier’s tenure offered little opportunity, but when Luis Enrique arrived in summer 2023, many believed it might signal a turning point.

According to Le Parisien in July 2023, Ekitike made a “remarkable start” to pre-season under Enrique, impressing his new coach with his technical ability and movement. Enrique was reportedly more eager to retain Ekitike than the PSG board, appreciating his qualities and seeing potential others overlooked.

Despite the promising start, things faltered. Ekitike made just one appearance in the first half of the 2023/24 season before being loaned to Frankfurt, where his fortunes dramatically improved.

Photo: IMAGO

What Luis Enrique Really Thought of Ekitike

Ekitike has been open about why life at PSG did not work. Speaking to L’Equipe in March, he reflected candidly:

“I will never say that I did everything well. I could have done better, that’s the truth, but no one helped me to do better. No one gave me confidence. Even during training, even through discussions. No one ever really took the time to talk with me to be able to help me.”

It appears Enrique recognised Ekitike’s raw talent but struggled to integrate him within a star-studded squad under intense pressure. The lack of support off the pitch contributed to the young striker’s struggles, but his breakout at Frankfurt, where he scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in 48 appearances last season, has silenced doubts.

How Ekitike Fits into Arne Slot’s Liverpool

Liverpool under Arne Slot are fresh from winning the Premier League, and Ekitike arrives not as a gamble but as a statement of intent. His combination of pace, intelligence and clinical finishing aligns perfectly with Slot’s dynamic attacking style. Bundesliga analysts have highlighted his “unseen attribute” of selfless movement, something Slot is reportedly eager to harness.

Although some supporters may still wonder about Isak, the truth is Ekitike offers Liverpool both a lethal edge and a chance to develop further under a manager known for improving young talent.

Final Thoughts on Liverpool’s New Number Nine

If the deal crosses the line, Ekitike’s Anfield chapter could be the platform he long sought at PSG. With the backing of Slot and the experience of Luis Enrique’s past approval, Ekitike has all the tools to thrive. For Liverpool, it is not about consolation signings but about smart, future-focused recruitment.