Arne Slot, the Liverpool boss, has expressed his displeasure with Hugo Ekitike's "stupid" red card during their recent Carabao Cup match against Southampton. The incident occurred after Ekitike scored the winning goal in the 85th minute, securing a 2-1 victory for the Reds. In a moment of exuberance, the French forward removed his shirt while celebrating in front of the Anfield crowd, resulting in a second yellow card and his subsequent dismissal.

Ekitike's first yellow card came just eight minutes after he replaced Alexander Isak at halftime, for dissent after punching the ball away when a free-kick was awarded against him. Slot criticized both yellow cards, labeling the first as "needless and to a certain extent stupid because you have to control your emotions". Regarding the second yellow card for removing his shirt, Slot didn't mince words, calling it "needless, not smart," and ultimately "stupid".

The red card means Ekitike will be suspended for Liverpool's upcoming Premier League match against Crystal Palace. This absence is a blow to Liverpool, especially with the game being against an in-form Crystal Palace side. Despite the setback, Ekitike will be eligible to play in the Champions League match against Galatasaray and the subsequent Premier League game against Chelsea.

Many observers, including Slot, felt Ekitike's celebration was unnecessary. Slot, reflecting on his own experiences as a player, suggested that he would have acknowledged Federico Chiesa, who provided the assist, rather than making the celebration about himself. He stated that if he scored a goal like that, he "would have turned around and walked up to Federico Chiesa and said: 'This goal is all about you, this is not about me'".

The incident sparked varied reactions, with teammate Jeremie Frimpong seemingly aware of the consequences as he approached Ekitike after the celebration. Former manager Will Still, who worked with Ekitike at Stade Reims, revealed that Ekitike had jokingly told him before the game that he would score, give Still his shirt, and then "bugger off," which is exactly what happened.

Despite Slot's criticism, Alexander Isak, who scored Liverpool's first goal in the match, showed understanding, suggesting Ekitike was simply caught up in the moment and unaware of being on a yellow card. Isak also expressed confidence in his own form and readiness to contribute to the team. The suspension presents a challenge for Slot, who may now rely more on Isak in the upcoming match against Crystal Palace.