7 hours ago
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Despite his impressive start to the season, Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike is likely to be overlooked by France once again.
This leaves the striker contemplating a switch of allegiance, with Cameroon still an option. Ekitike made his move to Anfield earlier this summer and has quickly justified that transfer. He's netted twice in as many Premier League games, as Arne Slot missed the latter goal, and also found the back of the net in the Community Shield.
However, it seems his performances may not be enough to persuade Didier Deschamps to include him in Les Blues' squad. The 2018 World Cup winner is gearing up for next summer's tournament, with matches against Ukraine and Iceland on the horizon.
Deschamps is set to announce his squad on Wednesday, but according to Le Figaro, the French manager still thinks it's "too soon" for Ekitike to receive a call-up. This is despite his impressive form over more than a season at both Frankfurt and Liverpool.
As a result, Ekitike might reconsider representing Cameroon, even though he had previously aimed for a spot in the French squad.
The forward is eligible to play for both countries and may now shift his focus to the African nation in his quest for international recognition.
Cameroon's best World Cup performance was in 1990 when the nation reached the quarterfinals, only to be defeated by England. Cameroon has been one of Africa's most consistent teams and currently sits second in its qualification group behind Cape Verde.
Cameroon has participated in six of the last eight World Cups.
France will be among the favorites to clinch the tournament when the soccer world turns its gaze toward North America.
The World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Les Blues boast a wealth of attacking prowess with Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and PSG ace Ousmane Dembele forming a formidable frontline.
Ekitike's challenge lies in the fierce competition behind them, and it's understood that Deschamps is leaning more towards Manchester City's Rayan Cherki, Bayern Munich's Michael Olise, and PSG prodigy Desire Doue, who has seen a meteoric rise.
The quick-off-the-mark Ekitike might see his role at Liverpool shift, which could affect his goal-scoring feats.
The 23-year-old has stepped up and spearheaded the Reds' attack, but they continue to chase Alexander Isak, and Ekitike has conceded he can operate from the flanks, which may well be the case.
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