Hugo Ekitike during his interview on the Liverpool website on 25/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

Hugo Ekitike during his interview on the Liverpool website on 25/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

Hugo, congratulations on becoming a Liverpool player. How are you feeling?

I feel incredibly proud. This is clearly a huge club. I’m really excited, like a kid. I’ve dreamt of playing in the Premier League for a long time, and wearing the Liverpool shirt is a fantastic feeling. I’m eager to get on the pitch and win trophies with the club.

Why is this the right move for you?

I think this is the perfect time. I went to the Bundesliga eager to prove myself as a good player and to make a difference on the pitch. Last season, I think I performed quite well. Now, I’m ready to step up to the highest level, compete at the top, improve myself, and discover my limits. Therefore, I believe this is the ideal time to join Liverpool.

You mentioned timing. How have the past 48 hours been? Everything happened so fast: you boarded the plane, met your teammates, and trained the next day.

Yes, everything happened very quickly. I flew straight here after signing the contract. It was a long flight, but I was really excited to arrive and meet everyone. It all happened rapidly, but I enjoyed every moment. I live day by day, so I always try to enjoy every minute I have here. Now I'm just excited and eager to wait.

What did you think of your introduction, only catching a glimpse of training and meeting your new teammates on the pitch on Thursday?

I think it was the perfect way to get acquainted with everyone, even the club legends. It was truly a great moment for me, right at the stadium, in front of so many fans. It was a big experience, and I’m truly grateful for it.

How did your first training session feel, putting on the training kit and joining the team?

Liverpool clearly has very high-quality players. It's a joy to play with such talented individuals. I want to work even harder to reach that level, and even higher.

You are joining the team at a special time. Liverpool have just won the Premier League and are determined to build on that success.

Liverpool is clearly at the top, but we still have many goals. We want to be the best team and we need to improve every season to achieve success. Next season will be long and difficult, but I believe the team has enough quality to conquer everything.

Hugo Ekitike poses for a photo during the interview. Photo: Liverpool FC

Hugo Ekitike poses for a photo during the interview. Photo: Liverpool FC

You are one of Liverpool's 7 new signings this summer. The new contracts are generating great excitement from the fans.

I’m excited to play with them, it’s wonderful. This summer transfer window has been really successful for the club, bringing in many quality players. I believe the squad will be even stronger. That’s also why the fans are happy.

You had a great 17 months at Eintracht Frankfurt. Initially a loan deal, then a permanent transfer. What do you say about that time?

I’m truly grateful to them. At Frankfurt, I had the opportunity to express myself. I found a family, wonderful people. They dedicated time and were patient with me. I made mistakes on the pitch, but that helped me learn and improve. It was the best way to become a better player and a better person, because I think I grew in both aspects. I'm truly grateful and Frankfurt will always be in my heart.

Fans are excited to rewatch your goals and playing style, with its "street" flair. Where does that come from?

Probably from… the streets! I always played football outside with friends, at school, and watched a lot of matches. My favorite players were always those who liked to keep the ball at their feet, perform skills, and express themselves on the pitch. That’s why I’ve always wanted to play that way, enjoying having the ball, dribbling, and showing off when facing opponents. That’s simply my playing style.

Hugo Ekitike and coach Arne Slot during Liverpool's training session in Hong Kong on 24/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

Hugo Ekitike and coach Arne Slot during Liverpool's training session in Hong Kong on 24/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

How did your first conversation with coach Arne Slot help you realize that Liverpool was the right destination?

We had a great conversation from the very first time. The coach is very approachable, so we talked not only about football but also about many other things in life. I found Arne interesting, and I’m excited about what I can do working with him. I think Arne is a good person and also a good coach. He made me want to come here.

Slot is known for his ability to help good players become even better. That must have been what attracted you?

Yes, definitely. When you see a coach who can elevate players, you want to work with him to develop, because you know he can help you reach the next level. And if you want to go further, I think that’s the right choice.

You are a versatile forward. How do you feel about playing in all attacking positions?

I always do what the coach asks, but it's true that I like to do everything. I'm not just a center forward who only knows how to finish; I like to be involved in the game, be a part of the team, and also create opportunities for others. I can play alone or pair up with another forward. I think that’s what creates diversity in my playing style. And in modern football, you have to know how to adapt.

Do you remember watching Liverpool play on TV as a child? Does joining this team bring back any memories of that time?

To be honest, I didn't watch the team much because I couldn't afford to watch on TV; you had to pay, and at that time I couldn't. But I’ve loved football since I was little, regularly watching clips on YouTube and always dreaming of playing in the Premier League. So, coming here is a huge thing and I’m very grateful.

Hugo Ekitike wearing a Liverpool shirt with the name of legend Steven Gerrard.

You recently posted a photo of yourself wearing a Liverpool away shirt from the 1990s with the name of legend Steven Gerrard on the back. What’s the story behind that photo?

At that time, I was preparing to go on vacation and still had to attend a few training sessions. I really like classic jerseys, and my brother went and bought that shirt – and everyone knows the rest: now I'm here! Gerrard is probably the greatest legend in Liverpool history, so it was great to wear that shirt. It's a very special shirt.

Captain Virgil van Dijk famously said when he extended his contract: 'Always Liverpool'. Is it the same feeling for you, that this has always been the ideal destination?

Yes, for me this is the right choice. The way the club operates, the things I've heard about the people here, the atmosphere, the fans, the stadium, the way the team develops players. Liverpool also just won the Premier League and are one of the top teams in the world. So, it's true: always Liverpool. Since I talked to the coach, I’ve been certain of that.

How do you imagine scoring your first goal at Anfield?

Anfield is crazy! I’m eager to play there. I haven’t even dared to think about what it would feel like to score there. I think when I step onto the pitch, then I’ll dare to imagine. But it will be a great experience. I’ve seen it on TV – it’s crazy: passionate stadium, passionate fans. I think it will be very special.

What message do you have for Liverpool fans watching or reading this interview?

Hello fans! This is Hugo Ekitike. I can’t wait to score goals, win, and bring you success. Let’s enjoy the fun at the stadium and see you in the stands!

Hong Duy (adapted from Liverpool FC)