Hugo Ekitike Sends Emotional Farewell to Eintracht Frankfurt After £69m Liverpool Move | OneFootball

Liverpool Capture Hugo Ekitike as Emotional Farewell to Eintracht Frankfurt Signals Star’s Character

Liverpool’s summer transfer window has taken another major step forward with the capture of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. The French forward has completed a £69 million switch to Anfield, joining Arne Slot’s reigning Premier League champions ahead of the 2025–26 campaign. But beyond his numbers on the pitch, it’s his emotional goodbye to Frankfurt that is making headlines.

Ekitike’s heartfelt farewell, posted on Instagram, offers a clear window into the kind of character Liverpool have acquired. While fans will rightly focus on his 22 goals and 12 assists last season in the Bundesliga, the 23-year-old’s message reveals a grounded, thoughtful professional ready to embrace the expectations that come with wearing the famous red shirt.

Farewell Letter Reflects Deep Connection with Frankfurt

“It’s crazy how quickly time flies,” Ekitike wrote on Instagram, “but leaves us indelible traces and memories.”

The post continued with a series of moving tributes to the supporters and staff at Eintracht Frankfurt. “I haven’t forgotten anything since my first day among you,” he added. “The truth is it’s here that I learned love – true love.”

Photo: IMAGO

These words speak volumes about the personal growth he experienced in Germany, following a tough spell at Paris Saint-Germain where opportunities were limited. In Frankfurt, he found his rhythm, his confidence and, clearly, a home.

“Thank you for celebrating me as one of yours every time, I never felt like a stranger among you,” Ekitike wrote, showing appreciation for the fan base that supported him through his development.

New Liverpool Signing Already Winning Hearts

Ekitike’s humility and gratitude have already resonated with Liverpool supporters, who place great importance on emotional intelligence as well as footballing ability. He closed his post with a statement that underlines his maturity.

“You have each been at one time a shoulder or an ear for me. I grew up with you,” he wrote. “We never really leave those we love… I will fulfil my new role, being the first supporter of this club that I love.”

He even added a moment of light-heartedness about future Champions League ambitions, writing: “Wish you guys to win this Champions League (unless you face me )”

Frankfurt, in return, responded with a short but telling message: “❤️”, acknowledging the strong bond formed between player and club.

Slot’s Squad Strengthens Further

Ekitike becomes the second major addition to Arne Slot’s Liverpool side this summer, following the arrival of Florian Wirtz. The Dutch manager, who led the Reds to the Premier League title in his debut season, is looking to refresh the squad without losing the human touch that has long been part of the club’s identity.

Liverpool’s recruitment team will no doubt be pleased not only with Ekitike’s output in the final third, but with the emotional intelligence he brings. He joins pre-season training already welcomed by senior figures at the club and is expected to compete for a central role in Liverpool’s attack.

Whether as a starter or rotational option, Ekitike brings firepower, flair and a mindset shaped by both adversity and support. His passion and values fit seamlessly with the ethos at Liverpool, where fans expect their players to feel the weight and privilege of the badge.