Hugo Ekitike has publicly addressed Liverpool's record-breaking acquisition of Alexander Isak, expressing excitement about the competition the Swedish striker will bring to the team. Liverpool secured Isak's signature from Newcastle United for a reported £125 million, a British record transfer fee.
Ekitike, who joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt for a fee around £90 million, has enjoyed a strong start to his Liverpool career, scoring three goals in his first four competitive appearances. Despite Isak's arrival posing a direct threat to his starting position, Ekitike insists he welcomes the challenge.
"When you play for the best teams, you inevitably expect to be competing with the best players," Ekitike said. "Isak is a player I used to watch, so seeing him arrive is a pleasure". He added, "It's going to be tough competition, but I'm going to work hard to be good and perform well so that it's just the coach's problem".
Ekitike's positive attitude suggests he is ready to fight for his place in the team. He believes that having strong competition within the squad is a good thing for Liverpool, and he is determined to prove his worth to manager Arne Slot.
Isak's arrival gives Slot a selection headache. Both Ekitike and Isak are capable of playing as a central striker, potentially leading to a tactical dilemma for the manager. It remains to be seen how Slot will integrate both players into the starting XI.
Liverpool are back in action this weekend at home to Burnley, and Ekitike is expected to keep his place in the line-up. Isak is lacking match fitness after a summer on strike and was left on the bench for Sweden's World Cup qualifying game in Slovenia.