Benzema blueprint could shape Liverpool’s plans for Ekitike | OneFootball

Ekitike’s early impact at Anfield

Hugo Ekitike has made a seamless start to life at Liverpool, producing performances that suggest he could play a central role in the club’s plans this season. The French forward marked his Premier League debut with a goal and an assist in the 4-2 victory over Bournemouth, earning the player of the match award. That followed his strike at Wembley in the Community Shield, offering early evidence of his composure on big occasions.

Speaking after the Bournemouth win, Ekitike provided a glimpse into the influences that shaped his style. “Growing up, two players I admired were Neymar and Karim Benzema,” he told Sky Sports. “I really loved Karim Benzema because of the way he played football. What he did for the game is my whole model as a footballer.”

Benzema influence on Ekitike’s development

Ekitike’s decision to model his game on Karim Benzema is particularly significant. Benzema’s career at Real Madrid demonstrated versatility — thriving both as a lone striker and as part of a forward partnership. While Cristiano Ronaldo attracted much of the spotlight in Madrid, Benzema’s ability to adapt his game, sacrifice space, and still deliver consistently made him invaluable to the side.

The Frenchman often operated from the left to accommodate Ronaldo’s goalscoring dominance, a role that demanded both tactical intelligence and unselfish movement. That adaptability is something Liverpool may look to harness in Ekitike, offering Jürgen Klopp further options in attack.

Tactical flexibility and transfer considerations

If Ekitike is to emulate Benzema, Liverpool could see him not only as a central striker but also as a component in a front two or three. This opens the door to tactical variations — particularly if the club presses ahead with interest in another forward option.

Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak has been strongly linked with a move to Anfield. Liverpool are understood to have seen a £110 million bid rejected earlier this summer, but speculation persists that the club remain attentive to developments around the Sweden international. Should a deal progress, Ekitike’s flexibility would allow Klopp to field a dynamic partnership involving Isak and Mohamed Salah, rather than restricting him to competing for one central role.

What it means for Liverpool’s season

Ekitike’s comments cannot be taken as definitive insight into Liverpool’s transfer strategy, but they do offer subtle hints at the tactical direction the club may pursue. With Benzema as a blueprint, Liverpool gain a player capable of leading the line or operating within a more fluid structure.

Whether this results in renewed movement for Isak before the transfer window closes remains uncertain, but Ekitike’s early contribution ensures Liverpool already possess a forward whose potential impact could extend well beyond the opening weeks of the campaign.