10 hours ago
52
Liverpool’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike provides another intriguing insight into the Reds’ evolution under Arne Slot.
That the Dutchman managed to win the Premier League essentially with the squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp, underlines Slot’s coaching credentials. He made several significant adjustments to the side throughout the campaign, ensuring there was more build-up between the lines, that Mohamed Salah remained in the optimal positions more often, and asking his full-backs to play inside more often.
But those tactics are likely to change again this season. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure necessitates an alteration; the Reds need more creativity from central areas, while Slot will inevitably expect a more traditional approach from this season’s right-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley.
The former will add more pace to the team, a common theme of this summer’s business, helped by the arrivals of Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz.
Ekitike, given his speed and physicality, will help address that deficiency from the squad last season.
The striker’s variety and depth of skills has no doubt played a factor in Liverpool’s interest. Ekitike likes to stretch opposition defences with runs in behind, and also drop deep and link with teammates. That should suit Wirtz perfectly, given his penchant for flicking between positions.
In fact, according to a recent report in French outlet L’Equipe, Slot discussed an evolution in Liverpool’s game this season that will be incorporated around Ekitike.
This was spelled out in a video call with the player, with the Eintracht Frankfurt man likely to be key in possession sequences, while his ability to drop deep and also push forward are seen as vital attributes for Slot.
According to the report, the exchange “seduced” Ekitike and convinced him that Liverpool was the right next step in his career.
It’s expected that the Frenchman will sign this week, with Darwin Nunez likely to leave at some point this summer, despite beginning pre-season with four goals already.
The Uruguayan was named in the squad that flew to Hong Kong on Sunday, and it’s yet to be seen whether Ekitike will join the team and play any part in the two friendlies against AC Milan and Yokohama FM in Asia over the next 10 days.
Liverpool’s squad will fly back to the UK at the end of July and then play double friendlies against Athletic Bilbao on August 4, six days before the Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace.
The Premier League campaign starts on August 15 with a home clash against Bournemouth.
English (US) ·