Liverpool's Rising Star Reveals How Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe Shaped His Journey to Stardom
When constructing the ideal attacking player, one might combine Lionel Messi's field awareness, Neymar's technical abilities, and Kylian Mbappé's explosive runs behind the defense as an excellent foundation.
This legendary trio served as the shining model that Hugo Ekitiké sought to emulate during his stint at Paris Saint-Germain.
Liverpool's summer acquisition hasn't quite achieved that three-way fusion of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé yet, but he has enjoyed an impressive beginning to his Anfield journey. Apart from some overly enthusiastic goal celebrations, Ekitiké has barely made a misstep for his new club, adapting much more quickly than record purchase Alexander Isak while accumulating an outstanding six goals in all competitions.
The former Reims academy player joined Anfield for a fee potentially reaching €92.5 million (£81.4 million, $106.9 million) from Eintracht Frankfurt in July, though Ekitiké experienced his first major transfer breakthrough three years prior.
Following an impressive campaign leading Reims' attack, PSG secured the lanky striker on loan before finalizing his transfer for €28.5 million twelve months later. That identical summer saw Messi join a roster already featuring Neymar and Mbappé.
Barely beyond his teens, Ekitiké was restricted to 14 starting appearances over 18 months at PSG, netting four goals. The French player had limited competitive experience alongside the team's star-studded attack—Ekitiké shared more playing time with Danilo Pereira than with any of Messi, Neymar, or Mbappé—but he treasured his training sessions with these football legends.
"I certainly absorbed elements from their gameplay," Ekitiké shared with The Guardian this week. "I attempt to learn from players I admire. I enjoy observing and incorporating aspects into my style to become more well-rounded."
When asked about each player's specific impact, Ekitiké explained: "Perhaps like [Messi's] awareness. Sometimes I attempt to anticipate situations earlier, before receiving possession. [From] Neymar I adopted certain techniques and skills, ball mastery. I learned Kylian's movement—he could execute brilliant runs off the ball. So many elements, it's challenging to enumerate."
Ekitiké continues playing with Mbappé for France's national squad and emphasizes their distinctions. "He [Mbappé] is swifter than me. I am rapid, but he ranks among the world's fastest. I aspire to reach that level someday, but we represent different player types. He possesses tremendous pace, while I'm more of a player capable of contributing to team play."
The duo have maintained their friendship beyond football as well. "He witnessed my difficult situation at PSG, so he's pleased that circumstances are improving for me now," Ekitiké mentioned regarding Mbappé. "He's been like an older sibling to me. I simply wasn't getting opportunities—it became challenging toward the end. He consistently supported me, always providing guidance."
Ekitike: Slot Is on My Back
Mbappé isn't the sole voice providing guidance to Ekitiké. The 22-year-old speaks highly of his Liverpool coach Arne Slot, who has developed a solid bond with the forward that endured an ill-advised red card against Southampton this season.
"Obviously keep my jersey on," was Ekitiké's clever reply when asked about Slot's counsel. "I'd say he's constantly pushing me, but not negatively," Ekitiké added.
"He simply wants to assist me, so I don't interpret that poorly. He desires me to contribute increasingly more. Perhaps occasionally you feel it's somewhat excessive and you want to object. It's beneficial because I believe if a manager doesn't favor you, he won't communicate with you or attempt to extract your best performance."