Hugo Ekitike has been the most prolific of all Liverpool’s 2025 summer signings.
While Alexander Isak is struggling for consistent goals and fitness, the Frenchman goes into the weekend’s action as the Reds’ top goalscorer, with eight in all competitions.
Wayne Rooney is a fan of Ekitike, labelling the number nine ‘brilliant’ recently.
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Should Mohamed Salah be brought back to start against Brighton?
Mohamed Salah warms up ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against Leeds United at Elland Road (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Big decision for Arne Slot
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But while the 23-year-old has impressed more than the likes of Isak and Florian Wirtz since the season began, Arne Slot still wants him to improve one area of his game.
Hugo Ekitike’s aerial work needs to be stronger
Speaking at the beginning of November, the Liverpool manager told Ekitike to be better in duels.
He said: “That is what makes him [Ekitike] special, if you’re that tall and your footwork is as good as his.
“That’s what makes him special, if you’re so tall, he needs to be stronger in duels.”
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Now, in his pre-Brighton press conference, Slot has admitted that Ekitike has improved in this department, but work can still be done.
He said: “I don’t think height tells you a player is perfectly equipped for that direct style. Some are tall and struggle, others aren’t and dominate. Alex and Hugo, you can better use them in behind than long balls into their body.
“I see Hugo trying to do this better and better, but there’s room for improvement as there is with so many parts of our games.”
Who should replace Mohamed Salah if he leaves for the Saudi Pro League? 🤔
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Liverpool FC at Frankfurt Stadion.
Credit: Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
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Hugo Ekitike can unlock a new Liverpool strength
Against Inter Milan, Slot played a 4-4-2 diamond formation, which the players reportedly like.
With play now focused more centrally and Mohamed Salah out of the team, there will be more opportunities for Liverpool to play long-ball football.
While it may not be the most eye-catching and is far removed from what we are used to seeing from the Reds, it’s another potential way they can hurt opponents, especially those more inclined to play in a low block.
However, it will require Ekitike and potentially Isak to improve their aerial prowess.
According to Fbref, the French attacker has won 13 aerial duels in the Premier League this term, which ranks him 122nd out of every player in the top-flight.
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