Hugo Ekitike Reveals Why He Rejected Newcastle for Liverpool: "They're Simply Better Equipped"

Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitiké has revealed he chose to join the Reds instead of Newcastle United this summer in an effort to rebuild his standing at football's highest level.

Ekitiké initially made his mark as a young talent at Stade Reims before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in summer 2022. However, despite being heralded as a cornerstone of French football's future, he found it difficult to establish himself in a squad that featured Kylian Mbappé. With just four goals across 33 matches, Ekitiké was forced to reassess his situation and transferred to Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2023–24 season's winter window.

Newcastle, who had maintained interest in Ekitiké for some time, renewed their chase for the 23-year-old this summer following his impressive campaign that yielded 15 goals and eight assists. The Magpies sought him as cover for Alexander Isak but ultimately lost out to Liverpool, who subsequently secured Isak's services on transfer deadline day as well.

While some have criticized Ekitiké's choice to move to Liverpool, especially considering the increased competition following Isak's arrival, the French striker remains confident in his decision to back himself.

"It was my decision, that's what I desired," Ekitiké explained to Canal+. "I felt a stronger connection coming here and understood it was the perfect moment and location for me. I aimed to return to elite level football and come back this time better prepared, more ready across all areas. And I believe I made the correct choice."

A €90 million (£78.4 million, $105.7 million) transfer to Anfield naturally creates expectations, but Ekitiké emphasized he's comfortable disregarding his valuation and allowing his performances to speak for themselves.

"I'm not bothered," he stated directly. "My focus remains on the match.

"Externally, people can discuss the transfer fee. That's just how it is. Football has evolved. You carry a substantial transfer fee? Simply play the game."

Ekitiké has backed up his words through his performances this season. Recording four goals and one assist in his opening seven appearances has presented manager Arne Slot with a challenging selection dilemma once Isak regains full match fitness.

"Clearly, from an external perspective, [my performances] might seem surprising, but it doesn't surprise me," he chuckled. "I was already in good form with strong statistics last season and I'm part of a quality team that suits me well. I aspire to be a player who maintains reliability."