Hugo Ekitike reveals Arne Slot chat that sealed Liverpool move | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike’s Excitement Signals a New Era Under Arne Slot at Liverpool

Ekitike buys into Liverpool’s vision

In his first interview since arriving at Liverpool, Ekitike radiated the kind of enthusiasm that’s impossible to fabricate. Speaking to the clubs website following his inaugural training session with the Premier League champions in Hong Kong, Ekitike described the move from Eintracht Frankfurt as “perfect” in terms of timing.

“I feel very proud. Obviously it’s a big, big club. I’m just excited, I’m a bit like a kid,” he said, capturing both the awe and ambition of joining a side with global stature.

What stood out wasn’t just Ekitike’s admiration for the club’s success, but the clarity with which he spoke about his role within it. “You see the players on the team, obviously we have so much quality. It’s just a pleasure to play with such good players,” he added.

Arne Slot’s personal touch key to deal

If there were any doubts about who is shaping Liverpool’s next identity, Ekitike’s comments offer a decisive answer. The Frenchman didn’t just commit to Liverpool because of the trophies or the facilities—he signed because of a conversation.

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Ekitike offered a rare glimpse into his initial talks with the new head coach. “We had a very good first discussion together. We could talk not only about football [but] about everything. That’s why he made me want to come here.”

Slot, described by Ekitike as “very human” and “a really good coach and good person first,” clearly understands that modern players aren’t moved by numbers alone—they need to be understood. In this respect, Slot isn’t just a tactician; he’s a connector.

Tactical flexibility adds firepower

Having registered 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances for Frankfurt, Ekitike brings more than just raw numbers. His ability to operate across the front line gives Liverpool a valuable dimension—especially as the squad continues to evolve under Slot’s watch.

With Florian Wirtz also now part of the Anfield project, the sense is that Liverpool are not merely reloading but reimagining. Ekitike’s arrival, paired with Slot’s imprint, could see the Reds embrace a more fluid, adaptive attacking system.

Excitement meets expectation

While Ekitike has only just begun his Liverpool journey, the intent is already clear. “We have still things to reach,” he noted, refusing to be seduced by past achievements.

In that spirit, his closing words resonate beyond the training ground and into the soul of a club preparing for the next chapter: “It was just a perfect moment for me… I’m just excited.”