Hugo Ekitike: “They told me straight away about the Merseyside Derby” | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike’s Bright Start and the Challenge of the Merseyside Derby

Liverpool’s summer signing Hugo Ekitike has wasted no time making his presence felt at Anfield. Arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt for £69m, the forward has become a fan favourite in record time, scoring in each of his first three games and echoing Daniel Sturridge’s achievement from 2013. With Arne Slot’s side flying high at the top of the Premier League and enjoying a strong Champions League start, attention now turns to the Merseyside Derby.

Credit goes to Hugo Ekitike, speaking to Stan Sport, for offering a candid look into his first weeks at Liverpool and the anticipation of facing Everton in one of English football’s most famous fixtures.

Settling into life at Liverpool

Ekitike has been struck by the scale of the support surrounding the club. “I didn’t know how big the fanbase is but it’s really good and I feel like they like me and they show a lot of love, so I just want to give it back.”

The Frenchman credits his team-mates for helping him adapt. “The other players helped me to settle well in the team and just be focused on my job on the pitch.” He has already shown a sharp eye for goal, but what stands out is his willingness to embrace the demands of English football. “The intensity is high here both on the ball and off the ball, so I work way more in the gym than I did before.”

That mentality is key in a Liverpool side defined by hard running and collective effort. Arne Slot has brought continuity and success, with his debut season already marked by a Premier League title. The early signs this year suggest Liverpool have no intention of slowing down.

Guidance from familiar faces

For any young player arriving in a new league, having experienced compatriots matters. Ekitike singled out Ibrahima Konaté as a vital support. “The most important person when I came here was Ibou because he has been in the Premier League for four years now so he has helped with everything on and off the pitch.”

Such relationships often go underappreciated, yet they can make all the difference in adapting to a demanding environment. Ekitike’s ease in front of goal and his comfort in the squad reflect a player who has quickly found his feet.

Anticipating the Merseyside Derby

Few fixtures stir emotion like Liverpool versus Everton. Ekitike has already immersed himself in the history. “I’ve watched some videos on YouTube [of the Merseyside Derby] and they were just kicking each other! It’s a dangerous game but it’s exciting because when I came here they told me straight away about the Merseyside Derby because it’s really important here.”

His words capture the intensity of a contest where bragging rights matter deeply. “I know that it’s the type of game where you need to be ready mentally and you go there to win but it’s going to be a tough game.”

With Anfield as the backdrop, the setting could not be more fitting. “Anfield is a very good stadium, I love the atmosphere and it gives me goosebumps. I think we can play really nice football there.”

Competition and opportunity

Ekitike’s blistering start will soon face added competition, with Alexander Isak arriving for £125m from Newcastle United on deadline day. That battle for places is inevitable at a club chasing honours at home and abroad. Yet Ekitike’s confidence and hunger suggest he welcomes the challenge.

For now, his focus is on maintaining momentum and delivering when it matters most. The derby provides another chance to write his name into Anfield folklore.