Liverpool’s new striker Hugo Ekitike has been handed his first-ever call-up to the France national team, stepping in for the injured Rayan Cherki ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifiers. The French Football Federation confirmed on Sunday that Cherki, who joined Manchester City in June, has been sidelined with a thigh muscle problem, forcing Didier Deschamps to reshuffle his attack. Softfootball reports.
SoftFootball understands that Deschamps initially left Ekitike out of the squad despite his bright start at Anfield, pointing to the fierce competition in France’s forward line. However, the 23-year-old’s form has been impossible to ignore. He has already found the net three times in his first three games for Liverpool since completing a move from Eintracht Frankfurt last month.
Francefootball via its official X handle posted the official confirmation on Hugo Ekitike replacing the injured Ryan Cherki; See below
SoftFootball understands that the France coach has been impressed not only by Ekitike’s goals but also by his ability to adapt quickly to life in the Premier League. The call-up now gives the striker a golden opportunity to prove himself on the international stage as Les Bleus prepare for a tricky schedule.
Francefootball posted on its official X handle an exclusive video of hugo Ekitike speaking about his first call up to the Senior National team, Watch below;
France will take on Ukraine in Wroclaw, Poland, on September 5 before returning home to host Iceland four days later. For Ekitike, it marks the start of what could be a defining chapter in his career , a chance to wear the blue shirt and show he belongs among the country’s brightest talents.
