How Hugo Ekitike Became a Liverpool Cult Hero

How Ekitike Has Already Become a Liverpool Cult Hero

Hugo Ekitike’s meteoric rise from Bundesliga standout to Liverpool sensation has captivated Anfield. With 15 goals and 4 assists across all competitions, the 23-year-old French striker has become Liverpool’s unlikely hero in the absence of injured record-signing Alexander Isak.

Signed for £79m from Eintracht Frankfurt, Ekitike has silenced doubts and filled voids. His toe-poked finish against Newcastle drew comparisons to Romario, while he joined Kenny Dalglish as the only Liverpool debutants to score in five competitions.

From Numbers to Notoriety

In Ekitike’s first week as a Liverpool player, he made team-mates aware of his ability to adjust his feet quickly and score with a deceptive toe-poke directed into the corner.

• 15 goals and 4 assists since arrival

• Goal/assist every 112 minutes in the Premier League

• Scored in 5 different competitions

• Described as “world class” by Alan Shearer

• Called “best signing of the season” by Wayne Rooney

Intelligent Finisher, Charismatic Presence

Ekitike and Wirtz both moved from the Bundesliga to the Premier League last summer

Ekitike is:

• Pacy, dynamic, and intelligent in his movements

• A master of toe-poke finishes to surprise keepers

• Linked to Fernando Torres in his prime

• Committed to pressing and Arne Slot’s tactical evolution

Off the pitch, he’s equally magnetic. From hugging staff in club videos to signing boots at petrol stations, Ekitike embodies humility and charisma. His viral “Finsta” posts and easy rapport with teammates make him a favourite in both the dressing room and fanbase.

Built for the Premier League

Liverpool’s tailored bulking program has toughened Ekitike physically—mirroring Florian Wirtz—for the rigours of 2–3 games weekly. Slot admits early conversations about tracking back were “difficult,” but the striker has fully bought in.

Firmino’s Successor?

Much like Roberto Firmino, Ekitike excels in associative play: clever flicks, tight one-twos, and diagonal combinations—often with Wirtz—that break down deep blocks.

“It is so much fun to play with him… he knows how you move,” said Wirtz.

A Star is Rising

With Isak still recovering, it’s hard to imagine Liverpool without Ekitike leading the line. On Sunday, he’ll go head-to-head with Erling Haaland at Anfield. It’s a battle of Europe’s brightest.