Why Arne Slot must surely restore Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool lineup against Galatasaray

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(Credit: Imago) Mon 29 September 2025 17:45, UK Liverpool greatly missed Hugo Ekitike against Crystal Palace while the French striker served his one-game ban for being sent off against Southampton.Andy Robertson called Hugo Ekitike ‘silly’ after the game, suggesting it’s not likely that he will repeat the mistake again. They got a taste of their own medicine as they watched Eddie Nketiah win the game in the 97th minute.Credit: ImagoHugo Ekitike is eligible to start for Liverpool against Galatasaray and ChelseaWhen Hugo Ekitike received a red card for a second bookable offence after removing his shirt in celebration of his winning goal against Southampton in the FA Cup, he shocked everyone.Looking back at replays, it’s quite funny to see the reaction of the bench and the fans behind the bench.

Of course, the ban wasn’t applicable in Europe anyway, but Liverpool need him to start both games.#LFC’s 21-man squad for Galatasaray away: Alisson, Gomez, Endo, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Isak, Mac Allister, Salah, Bradley, Jones, Gakpo, Ekitike, Mamardashvili, Robertson, Woodman, Frimpong, Gravenberch, Ngumoha.Despite his recent form, no room for Chiesa.— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) September 29, 2025 View Tweet Ekitike was greatly missed against Crystal PalaceAlexander Isak received his full Premier League debut with Liverpool in the 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace but he and Florian Wirtz struggled. Ekitike’s form in front of goal was greatly missed, and following the game, he likely received further admonishment from Slot for costing his teammates.The stats that prove why Ekitike must start against GalatasarayDespite the silly moment that saw him sent off against Southampton, the form Ekitike is in is undeniable, and the sooner he’s back on the pitch for Liverpool, the better.With five goals, he is their leading goalscorer this season with a 42.86% conversion rate.

Fortunately, Liverpool spent unprecedented sums to reinforce their ranks in the summer.Credit: ImagoEintracht Frankfurt sold Ekitike to Liverpool for a huge £79million fee after 22 goals and 12 assists last season. From a high work ethic to his clinical finishing, Ekitike is one of the most exciting players in Europe right now.Goals5Assists1Distance covered (per 90)12.6kmShots per game3Conversion rate42.86%Big chances created7Take-on success rate71.43%Hugo Ekitike’s stats for Liverpool in the 2025-26 season (via Sofascore and Squawka)If Slot wants to rest Isak against Galatasaray after he played 84 minutes against Palace, it would be the perfect opportunity to restore Ekitike to the starting lineup.