Ian Wright Backs Hugo Ekitike to be a ‘Hit’ at Liverpool | OneFootball

Liverpool’s New Striker Hugo Ekitike Sparks Debate Among Pundits

Liverpool’s £69m summer signing Hugo Ekitike has quickly become a talking point, not only on the pitch but also in the studio. The French striker, who arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt, has already scored twice and registered an assist since joining Arne Slot’s side. His impact has been immediate, yet not everyone is convinced about how smoothly his transition to the Premier League will unfold.

Ian Wright Backs Ekitike To Shine

On Sky’s The Overlap, Gary Neville admitted to having doubts about Liverpool’s new number 22. “I think he’ll be a hit eventually, but I’m not sure he’ll be a hit straight away,” Neville said.

Ian Wright, however, was quick to disagree, pointing to the quality of Ekitike’s finishing and the chances Liverpool will inevitably create. “You know why I’ll go with a hit? Just the way he took his chances the other day. If he can get that going…” Wright argued.

Jamie Carragher added: “You know what I liked, Wrighty? The little touch on the halfway line.”

Wright stood firm in his stance: “I think he’ll be a hit simply because Liverpool will create the chances and, if he’s going to finish like that… I’m going to go with ‘hit’ for Hugo Ekitike.”

Strong Start Backed By Numbers

Early signs are encouraging. In Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth, Ekitike posted an 8/10 rating on Sofascore, the third highest in Slot’s starting XI. His stats highlighted both productivity and promise:

While still raw at 23 years of age, Ekitike is already showing signs of adjusting to the demands of English football. Slot has built his Liverpool team on fluid attacking play and high pressing, and the Frenchman looks capable of slotting into this system with relative ease.

Future Role In Liverpool’s Attack

Observers have noted certain stylistic echoes of Roberto Firmino in Ekitike’s game. The Brazilian’s unique ability to link play and drift deep often allowed Liverpool’s wide forwards to flourish, and Ekitike has already shown glimpses of that same intelligence. His touch, awareness and willingness to involve teammates suggest he may become more than just a traditional striker.

Of course, the Premier League’s physicality will be a test. Defenders are relentless, and adapting to the pace and intensity of English football remains a hurdle for many imports. Yet Ekitike has demonstrated strength in aerial duels and composure under pressure, qualities that should help him adapt swiftly.

For Liverpool supporters, there is plenty to be optimistic about. The early numbers look positive, his understanding with teammates is developing, and Ian Wright’s confidence in him reflects the belief that he can grow into a decisive player. Slot’s men will need every ounce of firepower to defend their Premier League crown, and Hugo Ekitike may prove a crucial part of that effort.