Hugo Ekitike scored both goals for Liverpool in the 2-0 win over Brighton, taking his total Premier League goals this season to seven. Only Erling Haaland has scored more goals from live-fire situations than the rookie recruited by Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer transfer window of 2025.
While Mohamed Salah's return from the bench has been the focus of attention at Anfield, it was Ekitike's performance that showed his growing influence in the system of coach Arne Slot. The French striker had 7 shots and 12 touches in the penalty area - the highest numbers in the Premier League.
Ekitike was forced off in the final minutes due to cramps, an issue Slot also mentioned after the match. "I can guarantee that today he has put in double the effort from the first matches of the season, when I had to replace him for the same reason," said the Liverpool captain.
In-depth statistics further confirm the progress of Ekitike. According to Opta, he made 25 high-intensity speeches against Brighton - the most in a Premier League match, breaking the 24-time record set against Leeds before.
"He has more and more energy to keep moving, both with and without the ball," Slot explained. That is also the reason why Anfield audiences quickly showed special affection for Ekitike, when they often shouted his name. Strong breaks, aggressive play and wide range of activities make Ekitike an unstoppable spearhead.
The contrast between Ekitike and Alexander Isak - Liverpool's record signing - is quite clear. Not only scoring more goals, Ekitike also excels in most attack indicators. Notably, he has scored 7 goals from the number of chances with an expected goal value of only 4.24. This is a big step forward from last season at Frankfurt, where Ekitike's finishing was once considered a weakness.
It is this low assessment that makes Liverpool believe that Ekitike still have a lot of room for development. reality is proving that, while Isak still needs more time to get into the rhythm and affirm his role.
Maybe in the future, the statistical balance will be more balanced. But at the moment, Ekitike is taking advantage of the opportunity better and is leading the competition in Liverpool's attack.
"We always try to stand side by side. It was not easy today, but in the end Liverpool won and deserved it. The team had a great week and will continue to do so. When you play for Liverpool, you just need to win," said the French striker.
For Liverpool, in the context of still being 10 points behind Premier League leader Arsenal, this victory did not create much change in the championship race. However, it was their fifth consecutive match unbeaten (3 wins, 2 draws), following their impressive performance in the away win over Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Although Slot's team may not have reached the peak as last season, the reigning Premier League champions are gradually building the necessary stability before the key period of the season.
