Liverpool’s bold £204m investment in Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike was meant to push the club beyond Premier League dominance and towards European glory. But just a few months into the season, the club faces its first internal storm of the campaign. While Isak – the British-record £125m arrival – was expected to lead the frontline, it’s Ekitike who has surged ahead, leaving questions about hierarchy, investment, and performance.
Ekitike vs Isak – Form Over Fee?
Frank Leboeuf sparked debate this week after stating “the only one who should play is Hugo Ekitike.” A bold claim, but difficult to dispute based on current form.
Ekitike arrived with less hype but adapted instantly to Arne Slot’s high-intensity system. His pressing, link-up play, and clinical finishing have made him the most reliable striker in Liverpool’s early title defence.
In contrast, Isak – who joined late amid a transfer dispute with Newcastle – missed vital pre-season time, resulting in match sharpness issues and tactical disconnection. His Premier League pedigree is undeniable, but he’s yet to display the ruthless efficiency seen at Newcastle.
The Financial Dilemma
Liverpool have invested £204m in two strikers, and £125m of that lies on Isak’s shoulders. Club executives did not sanction a record signing to sit on the bench. But elite football is increasingly becoming a system-led game, and Slot appears determined to select on performance – not price tag.
💭 “It doesn’t matter if the other guy costs £130 or 150m. If he’s not ready, you should play Hugo.” – Leboeuf
The pressure is now tactical and psychological. Play the man in form or back the investment?
Slot’s Attacking Puzzle
With Mohamed Salah’s inconsistencies, Cody Gakpo’s fluctuating impact and new signing Florian Wirtz also demanding a starting place, Liverpool face selective chaos in their attacking trio.
Key challenges Slot faces:
| Tactical Concern | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fitness & rhythm | Isak still behind in match readiness |
| Work-rate profiles | Ekitike ideal for Gegenpress |
| Positional balance | Wirtz’s inclusion congests central zones |
| Leadership hierarchy | Dropping a big signing may cause dressing room friction |
Could Salah’s AFCON Absence Change Everything?
With Salah heading to AFCON next month, a rare opportunity rises. Slot could trial a 4-4-2 system with Ekitike and Isak up front, sacrificing wide attacking width for dual central strikers.
Advantages of 4-4-2:
- Allows both high-profile strikers to operate together
- Reduces pressure of dropping one
- Brings Wirtz deeper to help midfield stability
Risks:
- Potential midfield inferiority against elite opposition
- Overreliance on full-backs for width
- Isak may still lack pressing mobility
Analysis: Who Should Start Now?
✔️ Short-term: Hugo Ekitike MUST remain starter while he’s scoring and physically dominant.
✔️ Mid-term: Isak should be integrated slowly, with cameo appearances improving his match rhythm.
✔️ Long-term: Both players are elite – Slot must eventually rotate tactically, not politically.
🔎 Key Statistic Suggestion for Future Article:
- Ekitike’s goals-per-minute this season vs Isak’s at Newcastle (trend line comparison)
- Pressing efficiency and distance covered per game
Conclusion
Liverpool may have spent £200m on two forwards to elevate their squad—but instead, they’ve ignited a high-stakes internal competition. Right now, Ekitike is the man who fits Slot’s Liverpool. Isak may be the bigger star, but current performance doesn’t justify a starting role.
As Leboeuf put it, “Slot has the choice of a king.” That might be true… but choosing wrong could cost Liverpool their title.
