Hugo Ekitike Reflects on Win for Jota, Eyes Personal Growth at Liverpool

Liverpool’s Premier League curtain-raiser was charged with emotion and drama, and Hugo Ekitike played a starring role in the Reds’ 4-2 triumph over Bournemouth at Anfield.

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The French striker, who opened the scoring and later assisted Cody Gakpo, spoke candidly about his performance, the team’s spirit, and his personal ambitions in English football.

“It was a good performance. I could do better,” Ekitike admitted to Sky Sports after the game. “But the most important thing tonight is the win and the mentality we showed.

“We wanted to win for the people who came tonight and for Diogo, and that’s what we did, so I’m happy for everybody.” His comments highlighted the emotional context of the match, which included tributes to Diogo Jota and his late brother André Silva.

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Ekitike is also focused on sharpening his own game in Liverpool’s high-intensity system. “I have so many things to do better. I helped the team as much as I could, I can do a lot of things. I think I will get better and do even more for this team,” he added.

The striker is determined to adapt fully to Arne Slot’s style, which demands sharper movement and quicker decision-making in congested spaces. “I changed my way of playing here. It’s a different football with more intensity.

“The defenders (in the Premier League) are stronger, and there are tight spaces here. I had so much more space in Germany. That’s why I try to come, link and go and run behind. We have to find the way to succeed with the details. It’s not good anymore. We just have to get better.”

Ekitike also revealed his footballing inspirations, citing Karim Benzema and Neymar as players he admired growing up. His admiration for Benzema, in particular, reflects a desire to emulate the French striker’s combination of technical brilliance and intelligent positioning.

“Growing up, there were two players, Neymar and Karim Benzema. I love Benzema, what he did for football. He is my role model,” the Frenchman concluded.

Ekitike’s determination to grow is evident, and his drive to improve could make him a key figure for the Reds in the seasons ahead.