Arne Slot Reveals Liverpool's Bold New Strategy for Landing Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike
Arne Slot emphasized ahead of Liverpool's Champions League encounter with Atlético Madrid that there exists a scenario where Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké could work together—though it was one substituting for the other on Wednesday evening as the Dutch manager got his initial glimpse of his new £125 million acquisition.
Liverpool invested an enormous sum this summer, bringing in both Isak and Ekitiké to transform their attacking options while also securing Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a transfer that could ultimately reach £116 million for the former German champions.
All three featured at various stages at Anfield, with Liverpool claiming a thrilling 3–2 victory in an entertaining encounter that witnessed Virgil van Dijk score a crucial late winner—continuing a pattern this season of the Reds finding decisive late goals.
Isak was included in the starting formation and featured for 58 minutes before being substituted by Ekitiké. This represented significant progress for the Swedish striker, who had minimal preseason preparation at Newcastle, providing him with essential match time to develop his match sharpness.
Ekitiké also gained from some rest, having delivered outstanding performances during the initial weeks of the 2025–26 campaign. However, based on Slot's pre-match remarks, it wouldn't be shocking to witness both players in Liverpool's starting eleven eventually.
"Hugo has the potential to operate from the left flank, not in the manner that Cody [Gakpo] or Mo [Salah] play by maintaining width and engaging in one-on-one situations, but he could develop into a secondary striker," Slot told TNT Sports before kickoff.
"However, generally speaking, I believe both of them [Isak and Ekitike] are more natural center-forwards than any other role."
Slot: I'm Delighted for Isak
Following the match, Slot shared his satisfaction with both players' contributions.
"I'm delighted [Isak] was able to start today. That's precisely why we rested him against Burnley. He performed well today and when Hugo entered the game, he made a significant impact too. We possess two excellent center-forwards and we'll utilize them, both of them, throughout their entire time here."
Ekitiké, specifically, has appeared at ease playing from the left with fluid movement alongside Wirtz and Gakpo during preseason. As the season progresses, it's entirely possible that both could feature from the opening whistle or when Liverpool need a goal late in what has become known as 'Slottage Time'. Maximizing the potential of his two premier strikers could prove crucial not only in retaining their Premier League crown, but also in securing trophies in other competitions.
Considering Slot's approach and statements about gradually integrating Isak into their system, it appears doubtful both will start in the Merseyside derby this weekend against Everton—though the duo should play roles against their steadily improving neighbors.