Liverpool people expect Hugo Ekitike to become “the new Fernando Torres” at Anfield. But the rookie of French people pursued another silhouette in his career
Learn idol Benzema
Hugo Ekitike has never hidden admiration for Benzema. In many interviews, Ekitike always mentioned the former Real Madrid striker as a “comprehensive model” to learn. The impressive Ekitike thing in Benzema is not only a definitive skill, but also a smart way to play and team thinking.
“I really like to review Benzema's handling phases on YouTube. The way he keeps the ball, creates a beat for his teammates, chooses the position. Everything is perfect,” Ekitike shared in an interview on Eintracht Frankfurt homepage in 2024.
Ekitike's gameplay also has a significant impact from Benzema. Liverpool's rookie is not a classic “number 9” model but often backs up, linking routes, exploiting space and supporting teammates. That explains why last season, Ekitike despite the striker but had up to 12 assists for Frankfurt.
However, Ekitike does not copy. The 23 -year -old striker enriched himself by combining soft techniques with explosive physical strength. The speed of the wind also became a separate weapon of the French striker.
Call your brother before every match
A small but meaningful habit that has followed Ekitike from the beginning of playing professionally: calling the oldest brother before every match. It is not only a “ritual”, but also an Ekitike connection with the family.
“I never came out if I didn't talk to my brother. He always helped me keep my head cold and reminded me who I am, where I came,” Ekitike said.
Born in Reims, in a multi -ethnic family with the French Father and the French mother, Ekitike grew up in the environment of love, discipline and richness. Although he was far away from home to attend the football academy, he still kept in touch with each family member, something that not all young players were maintained.
In Frankfurt or Paris, although the schedule is dense, Ekitike retains the habit of calling for her mother. “My family is my biggest support. Without my parents and my brother, I will not get the steps on the pitch. They will not only orient but also encourage and encourage me to practice hard,” Liverpool's rookie said.
“Never felt a Cameroon”
Despite the Cameroon blood from his father, Ekitike has never hidden the stance clearly: He did not feel attached to the Central African nation and did not intend to wear Cameroon Tel.
“I have never felt myself Cameroon. I was born and raised in France, speaking French, playing for French clubs, and my dream is to wear Les Bleus,” Ekitike said.
Ekitike's statement in 2024 caused mixed reactions. The African community in France criticized Ekitike to deny the origin. However, on the other hand, it also shows the clear and straightforward personality of Ekitike. The former PSG striker is not the one who likes diplomatic statements.
Joining Liverpool will help Ekitike get closer to the dream of French team. At the young level, Ekitike used to be a familiar member of French U20 and U21 teams.
Coach Didier Deschamps also always closely monitored Ekitike's step forward. In the context of an effective number 9, Liverpool's rookie can fully dream of a World Cup 2026. Provided that Ekitike must shine at Anfield first.
Fan of Rap music
In his spare time, Hugo Ekitike likes to immerse himself in the exciting tunes of rap music. Liverpool's rookie admitted to being a crazy fan of rap music, especially the French artists. Some other hobbies of Ekitike are playing basketball and tracking the US NFL rugby. “I like a simple lifestyle. In my free time, I just like to stay at home with my family,” the French striker shared.
