Hugo Ekitike discusses promising beginning at Liverpool: ‘Eager for additional success’
Hugo Ekitike has expressed that he is “eager for more” following his 12th goal of the season during Liverpool’s 6-0 triumph over Qarabag FK.
Arne Slot’s team advanced comfortably into the last 16 of the Champions League on Wednesday night, with Ekitike being one of the standout players. The France international has been impressive since his transfer to the club for an initial £69 million ($92.7m) from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer and is currently the leading scorer for the Reds this season.
Nonetheless, he believes he can further enhance his performance and has confidence in Liverpool’s ability to turn around their underwhelming season.
“I would say good,” Ekitike remarked when asked to evaluate his start at Anfield.
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“Clearly, I could improve, I could also perform worse. I’m quite satisfied. The key aspect was to bond off the pitch with my teammates, which is significant. Everything I do off the pitch with my teammates, in training, I believe I’ve integrated well, and that contributes to my performance, so I would say I’m pleased but I’m eager for more and I expect more from myself, so I must continue to work hard.
“Obviously, considering the last match against Bournemouth, I can say that everyone gave their all. Like any team, we must endure challenges, but we remain united, and hopefully, things will improve. We possess the quality, and I genuinely believe that things will turn around.”
Ekitike has swiftly become a fan favorite on Merseyside and received a standing ovation at Anfield when he was substituted in the second half on Wednesday night.
“It means a lot,” he stated. “I play for the fans; they provide me with immense energy. Sometimes during matches when I haven’t scored, I hear my name from the crowd, and it’s a wonderful feeling. It was what I dreamed of as a child, and it allows me to live that, so I’m thankful and I want to give more to them to bring them joy.”
Ekitike had been rumored to be moving to Newcastle United in the summer before Liverpool made their approach. The 23-year-old acknowledged that he is prepared for a hostile reception from the away supporters when Newcastle United comes to Merseyside in the Premier League this weekend but stated he is pleased with his decision to join Slot’s team.
“Clearly, we were close [to joining Newcastle], but I made my choice,” he said. “I knew where I wanted to go, so that’s all I can share with you.
“I don’t mind [about the reception from Newcastle fans]. I play for Liverpool; I have my supporters here. We already played there [Newcastle] and won, so hopefully, we will have a productive week of training. I don’t care about this; I just want to play and assist the team. It’s that simple.”
