Hugo Ekitike Eyes Jersey Number Options as Liverpool Move Looms
The Premier League title holders have been methodical in their transfer activities this summer, and their strategic maneuvering against Newcastle United has secured Hugo Ekitiké's move to Liverpool.
The Merseyside club utilized their pursuit of Alexander Isak as a bargaining chip to finalize a deal for the promising French striker, who has caught the attention of clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid following his outstanding Bundesliga campaign.
A transfer to Liverpool represents Ekitiké's second opportunity to excel at a top European club. His stint at Paris Saint-Germain came too early in his development, and some may wonder if he can handle the demanding nature of Premier League football.
Nevertheless, Ekitiké possesses exceptional striking ability, and Liverpool have demonstrated they can secure league championships without a consistent No. 9. This should reduce expectations, though the significant investment to bring him to Anfield means the 23-year-old, alongside Florian Wirtz, must make an immediate impact.
Below are Ekitiké's possible jersey number choices at his new club.
Hugo Ekitike Shirt Number History
Ekitiké developed his skills at Reims, where he began with the reserve squad before making his first-team debut in October 2020. The forward donned Nos. 9, 14 and 15 with the reserves, and 33 and 34 during his early senior appearances.
He switched between three different numbers throughout his inaugural complete Ligue 1 season, ultimately concluding the 2020–21 campaign wearing Reims' No. 9. The French player had previously been given Nos. 17 and 22.
Ekitiké was surprisingly allocated the No. 44 jersey upon joining PSG, suggesting his limited role, though he did feature with 9 and 15 during pre-season matches. His underwhelming period in Paris was succeeded by what appears to have been a career-defining transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt. Ekitiké consistently wore No. 11 throughout his time in Germany.
Liverpool Available Shirt Numbers
Liverpool announced earlier this month that Diogo Jota's No. 20 jersey will be permanently retired following the striker's tragic death.
The club's active transfer window means several new signings require fresh numbers, but numerous options remain available for Ekitiké. The French forward could emulate legends Robbie Fowler and Ian Rush by selecting the No. 12 jersey, while 15, 16, 22, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29 are also potential choices for the 23-year-old.
Ekitiké will not be claiming the No. 11 jersey from Mohamed Salah, but Nos. 7 and 9 might become accessible if Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez depart the club this summer.