Danny Murphy predicts how many games Hugo Ekitike could play this season after Isak arrival
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The article discusses the expected game time for Hugo Ekitike at Liverpool, following his high-profile £79m transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt during the summer transfer window of 2025. Ekitike, a versatile forward primarily playing as a No. 9 but capable of operating as a second striker or wide, arrived with considerable anticipation after scoring 22 goals in 48 appearances last season, helping Frankfurt qualify for the Champions League.
Despite his impressive record and the record transfer fee—making him Liverpool’s second-most expensive signing after Florian Wirtz—Ekitike’s immediate playing time at Liverpool is subject to tactical considerations and competition within the squad. The club views him as a long-term project with the potential to become one of the best strikers globally if he maintains his development trajectory.
The article highlights Liverpool’s strategic approach to signing Ekitike: after Newcastle’s club-record offer was rejected and Manchester United’s last-minute attempt failed, Liverpool secured his signature by firmly expressing the player’s desire to join Anfield. This transfer was the culmination of a complex negotiation involving several clubs, with Ekitike initially open to Chelsea but ultimately choosing Liverpool.
Regarding game time, Liverpool’s management plans to integrate Ekitike gradually, balancing his adaptation to Premier League demands with existing squad members’ roles. His multifaceted forward capabilities suggest he will be utilized in various attacking positions to maximize his impact and accommodate tactical flexibility.
In summary, while Hugo Ekitike’s transfer marks a significant investment and a statement of confidence in his potential, his exact minutes on the pitch in the early season will depend on how quickly he adapts and how the manager deploys him within Liverpool’s attacking framework.
PP