Overview

• Ekitike has scored in each of his first three Liverpool appearances, becoming the first player since Daniel Sturridge in 2013 to achieve the feat.
• Arne Slot says the striker must raise his off-ball intensity and match fitness to better fit Liverpool’s pressing game, noting he has yet to complete 90 minutes.
• Early data points to strong attacking output with around 1.3 xG, 0.3 xA and close to five shots per league game across his first two outings.
• Coaches have identified refinement areas including a reported 57% pass completion and limited touches in the box across his initial Premier League matches.
• Didier Deschamps praised Ekitike’s efficiency but left him out of the latest France squad, and local reporting says Liverpool remain interested in Alexander Isak, which could affect his role if any deal progresses.