Journalist Reveals How Isak and Ekitike Could Coexist in Slot’s New-Look Liverpool Attack

Ekitike’s Arrival Prompts Tactical Shift Under Slot

Strong Start for Slot’s New Signing

Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia delivered more than just a victory in Yokohama. The 3-1 win over F. Marinos marked the first appearance of Hugo Ekitike in a Liverpool shirt, adding fuel to the ongoing debate over how Arne Slot plans to balance his attacking options, especially with Alexander Isak’s name still swirling around the transfer conversation.

For all the rawness of a debut, Ekitike’s performance hinted at a player with the confidence to embrace a new role. Deployed off the left flank in place of the outgoing Luis Diaz, the 22-year-old showed the type of movement and acceleration that had attracted Liverpool to spend £69 million, potentially rising to £79 million with add-ons, to prise him from Eintracht Frankfurt earlier this month.

Reddy: Ekitike Fits the Left-Sided Role Perfectly

Melissa Reddy offered a compelling analysis during a live X (formerly Twitter) broadcast for GiveMeSport, suggesting Ekitike’s natural traits could fill the void left by Diaz’s likely departure.

“I actually think Ekitike, when you look at his profile and his strengths, he very much fits what Arne Slot wants from his wingers,” Reddy explained.

“He seems perfect to replace Luis Diaz. Especially when you consider Liverpool’s want of playing a one-on-one dribbler with acceleration who can cut inside and attack the fullback.”

Those attributes were visible in flashes against Yokohama, with Ekitike drawing fouls, stretching the pitch, and linking well with midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister.

The Great Striker Merry Go Round. Isak, Šeško, Watkins, Kane and more! WATCH LIVE, Submit Your Questions! https://t.co/qAJOeONQOM

— GiveMeSport (@GiveMeSport) July 30, 2025

Isak Link Spurs Questions About Front Three

Ben Jacobs posed a valid question in the same GiveMeSport discussion: how will Liverpool accommodate both Ekitike and Isak if the Swede joins this summer?

With Isak reportedly the next major attacking target, it seems unlikely both players will be competing for the same position. “If you look at Ekitike and where he thrives the most,” Reddy continued, “those are the attributes that would be well-suited to the left flank.”

This suggests that Slot has a system in mind that places Isak through the middle, with Ekitike drifting in from the left, and perhaps Mohamed Salah or Cody Gakpo on the right. It is a trio that promises not just goals, but interchangeable pressing and positional rotation.

Tactical Identity Emerges Under Slot

Arne Slot has not taken long to stamp his vision onto Liverpool. Following his historic Premier League title win in 2024, this summer’s transfer activity shows clear intent to expand tactical versatility.

“I also think Liverpool are looking for a more dynamic, fluid team,” Reddy said. “You can see in all of the signings thus far, Slot’s empowered to play about four or five different formations, with none of the players feeling uncomfortable or out of their depth.”

Slot’s use of Ekitike in Japan supports that philosophy. The young Frenchman’s willingness to interchange with Gakpo and Mac Allister added unpredictability to Liverpool’s shape in the final third. While it is only pre-season, the early signs point to Ekitike being more than a bench option.

Liverpool’s Left Redefined

Replacing Diaz will never be straightforward. The Colombian’s explosiveness and flair became essential to Liverpool’s balance under Klopp. But Ekitike offers different strengths, a longer stride, more physical presence and sharper movement inside the box.

Photo: IMAGO

His 22 goals and 12 assists for Frankfurt in 2024–25 speak for themselves. Now, in red, it is about translating that into Premier League consistency. Slot’s trust in the player, and his willingness to debut him quickly, shows that this was a signing made for now, not later.

As the squad prepares for further pre-season fixtures and the potential arrival of Isak, one thing is clear: Ekitike is here to play a central role in a new Liverpool chapter.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is an exciting start for Hugo Ekitike. While it’s only his first outing, watching him on the left against Yokohama brought some much-needed energy down that flank. He looks like he already understands the responsibilities Slot places on his wide players.

If this is the plan, Ekitike on the left, Salah (or Gakpo) on the right, and a traditional striker like Isak through the middle, then this front three has balance and menace. There’s also a feeling among supporters that Ekitike could develop into more of a complete forward than Diaz ever was, especially when it comes to decision-making in the final third.

The big question is how quickly he can adapt to English football. The Bundesliga is a good proving ground, but the tempo and scrutiny at Anfield will be intense. Fans will also want to see how he responds in bigger games, especially if Isak does arrive and raises the stakes.

Overall, Ekitike’s debut was promising and with Slot’s track record, there’s reason to believe this one will come good. For now, the Kop will enjoy the glimpse of what might be a very exciting future.