Softfootball has been able to capture the official interview of Liverpool’s new signing, Hugo Ekitike, as he joins Liverpool for the preseason.
According to Hugo Ekitike, he believes his move to Liverpool has come at exactly the right time, describing it as the “perfect moment” to take the next big step in his career.
Ekitike became the Premier League champions’ latest summer signing earlier this week, joining from Eintracht Frankfurt after an impressive 17-month spell in Germany.
Following his first interview as a Liverpool player, after completing his first training session with Arne Slot’s squad in Hong Kong on Friday morning, the 23-year-old French forward felt ’proud’ to be on Merseyside.
He told the club media that:
“I feel very proud. It’s a big, big club.
“I’m just excited I’m a bit like a kid. I’ve always dreamed of playing in the Premier League, and to do it with Liverpool is a huge, huge thing for me. I can’t wait to start playing and help the team win trophies.”
Ekitike described the move as a natural next step after building confidence and consistency in the Bundesliga. He scored goals, developed as a player, and credits Frankfurt with shaping both his football and character.
He continued that:
“I went to Germany hungry, wanting to prove I could make a difference on the pitch.
“I think I did that. Now I feel ready to play at the highest level and push myself even more.
“That’s why this is the right moment for me. Liverpool is the perfect club for that next challenge.”
The versatile forward also credited new head coach Arne Slot as a major influence in his decision to sign, highlighting a strong early connection.
He explained it as this:
“Our first conversation was great.
“He’s a very human person, and we didn’t just speak about football; we spoke about life. I got a very good feeling. I believe he can make me better, and that’s exactly what I want.”
Ekitike also spoke about how Slot’s reputation for player development played a key role.
He said:
“When you see a coach with a track record of improving players, you want to be part of that.
“If you want to go higher, it’s the right choice.”
Ekitike brings a flexible attacking profile, comfortable playing centrally or out wide, with creativity and close control as standout traits. His style, he says, comes from growing up playing on the streets.
The move to Liverpool also brought a wave of nostalgia and gratitude. Ekitike admitted that as a child, he couldn’t afford to watch Premier League matches on TV but dreamed about English football constantly.
Ekitike also revealed his admiration for the Anfield atmosphere, calling it “mad” and “crazy,” and couldn’t hide his excitement at the thought of scoring his first goal in front of the Kop.
Ekitike joined Liverpool for a reported fee worth up to €95 million with a six-year contract; he’s expected to play his first game for the Reds this afternoon against AC Milan.
