Liverpool Team vs Fulham Confirmed as Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz Decisions Made

Liverpool FC has confirmed its starting lineup for the crucial Premier League clash against Fulham, with new signings Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz both included after key selection decisions by manager Arne Slot.[1][2][6]

The Reds' summer transfer window was a record-breaking 300 million euro investment in a generational rebuild, headlined by Wirtz's 125-150 million euro move from Bayer Leverkusen and Ekitike's 95 million euro transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt.[1][2][4][6] Both Bundesliga stars, under 24, join Jeremie Frimpong (40 million from Leverkusen) and Milos Kerkez (47 million), forming a youthful attacking core.[6] Ekitike, who arrived via PSG loan and permanent deal in 2024, fills the void left by Diogo Jota's tragic death and Darwin Núñez's impending exit after waning patience.[1] His Frankfurt stats—26 goals and 14 assists in 65 games, including a stunner vs Tottenham—promise firepower.[1]

By January 2026, Ekitike has shattered records, breaking Mohamed Salah's mark for fastest 10 goals with 11 strikes this season, fueling Liverpool's title push despite a luckless Leeds draw.[4] Slot praises his improved fitness, defensive work rate, and running, calling it vital for the squad.[4] Wirtz dazzled in pre-season Hong Kong training, linking seamlessly with Ekitike, who greeted teammates amid Ibrahima Konaté's excitement over another Frenchman.[3][5] Their "dream duo" has ended Frankfurt's "transfer curse" with the club's priciest outgoing deal.[4][5]

Against Fulham, Slot opts for continuity: Alisson in goal; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson at back; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Wirtz in midfield; Salah, Ekitike, Díaz up top.[1] Bayern's interest in Díaz could profit from Liverpool's splash, but focus remains on the match.[1] With Ekitike's form and Wirtz's creativity, the Reds aim to maintain momentum in the title race.[4]

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