Still 'room for improvement' in Hugo Ekitike's game after Liverpool striker sent demand by Arne Slot

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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.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. Big decision for Arne Slot 👇 Join the debate; share your insight.

Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say 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 strongerSpeaking 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.”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. 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? 🤔 Credit: Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images 👇 Join the debate; share your insight.

Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say Hugo Ekitike can unlock a new Liverpool strengthAgainst 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. Join Our NewsletterReceive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox