Malouda Urges Ekitike to Adapt After Liverpool’s Record Signing of Isak
Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has been urged to “adapt” following the high-profile arrival of Alexander Isak at Anfield, according to advice from former France international Florent Malouda.
Ekitike joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer in a deal worth around £79 million, and was widely expected to spearhead the Reds’ attack. But on a frantic deadline day, Liverpool smashed the British transfer record by paying £125 million to sign Isak from Newcastle — immediately creating fierce competition for the starting No.9 role.
So far, Ekitike has made an encouraging start, with two goals and an assist in his first three Premier League appearances. Still, Malouda believes that the 22-year-old will need to evolve quickly to secure regular minutes under Arne Slot.
“Yes, Alexander Isak will influence Hugo Ekitike’s development, but great players are always adapting. You need to reinvent yourself and almost build a toolbox,” Malouda told Boyle Sports.
He stressed the importance of versatility:
“While you may have a favorite role, modern football requires involvement in defensive aspects as well. This doesn’t prevent you from performing at your best. Young players often struggle with this; you have to prioritize the team’s needs.”
Malouda also backed Ekitike’s ability to thrive, citing his past experience at PSG:
“Your position doesn’t matter. The connections you form with teammates will create scoring opportunities because he is a natural goal scorer. He poses a real threat and has gained valuable experience at PSG among many stars, so he knows how to thrive in a star-studded dressing room. Ultimately, he wants to play, improve his stats, deliver results, and meet expectations.”
With Isak — who netted 23 goals last season — expected to play a central role in Liverpool’s title push, Slot will have an enviable selection dilemma. Ekitike’s ability to also operate on the wing could prove crucial, ensuring he remains an important part of the Reds’ attacking arsenal despite the record-breaking arrival of Isak.
