The tragic death of Diogo Jota in July 2025 left not only a void in the hearts of Liverpool fans but also a gaping hole in the club’s forward line.
The Reds have, in response, signed French striker Hugo Ekitike, signing him from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth around £79 million. However, the question at the heart of most Liverpool supporters is whether Hugo Ekitike is the perfect replacement for Diogo Jota as the club goes into the 2025/26 season.
The 23-year-old arrived at Liverpool having scored 15 goals and 8 assists last season in the Bundesliga, which put him on the radar of several top European clubs. However, it was Liverpool who secured the signing of the forward player.
Here is the difference between Diogo Jota and Hugo Ekitike
(1) Jota was not just a runner, but could find his way out of tight spaces, and was lethal with both feet. He could play as a winger or central striker, often coming up with crucial goals in big moments.
Ekitike, on the other hand, is more traditional. He thrives as a central striker, using his physicality and movement to find space in the box.
(2) Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, played a key role in convincing the club to move for Ekitike. The signing isn’t just about replacing Jota’s output but it is about reshaping Liverpool’s attack for the future. With the possibility of Darwin Nunez and Luis Díaz leaving the club, Ekitike is expected to be the focal point of a refreshed frontline.
Verdict:
Hugo Ekitike might not be a perfect replacement for Diogo Jota, but he is an exciting player who will offer something different for Liverpool in the forward line. While Jota’s versatility and experience will be hard to match, Ekitike brings youth, energy, and a hunger to prove himself on the biggest stage.
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