Joël Matip backs Hugo Ekitiké to shine at Liverpool: “He Has Everything to Succeed”

Hugo Ekitiké’s transfer to Liverpool marks a significant step in the French-Cameroonian striker’s career following a standout season with Eintracht Frankfurt.

The 23-year-old forward arrives at Anfield after netting 22 goals and registering 12 assists across 48 appearances in the 2024–25 campaign, earning himself a high-profile move to the Premier League.

Joël Matip, the former Liverpool and Cameroon international defender, has voiced his support for the club’s latest attacking recruit, describing Ekitiké as a player who can thrive under the demands of English football.

Matip, who spent eight years on Merseyside and was a key figure in the Reds’ 2018–19 UEFA Champions League triumph, believes that the striker’s profile is perfectly suited to Liverpool’s evolving attacking approach.

“Signing Hugo Ekitiké is a great move by Liverpool,” Matip said. “He brings something different to the attack. At nearly two metres tall, he offers presence up front, but he’s not just physical—he’s clever in his movements, good at linking play, and he’s really sharpened his finishing. He’s grown a lot physically and mentally.”

Ekitiké’s arrival reportedly cost Liverpool in the region of €95 million, a figure that underscores the club’s belief in his potential but also comes with significant expectations.

While such a price tag could burden any young talent, Matip is confident the former Paris Saint-Germain forward has the temperament and ability to handle the spotlight.

“There’s always pressure with a big transfer, but I think Hugo is mature enough to deal with it,” Matip added. “His spell at Frankfurt was very important for his development—he grew a lot there. I’m sure he’ll find his place at Liverpool and adapt to the Premier League quickly.”

Ekitiké has already linked up with his new teammates in Hong Kong as part of the club’s pre-season preparations under new head coach Arne Slot.

The squad is currently touring Asia as they gear up for the 2025–26 campaign, and all eyes will be on how quickly the French striker can adjust to his new surroundings and integrate into Slot’s system.

A product of the Stade de Reims academy, Ekitiké made his senior breakthrough in Ligue 1 before moving to PSG. A lack of consistent opportunities in Paris led to his eventual transfer to Germany, where he rebuilt his reputation with Frankfurt.

His strong performances in the Bundesliga caught the attention of top European sides, but it was Liverpool who ultimately secured his signature.

The forward, who earned €3.5 million annually in Germany—approximately 2.3 billion FCFA—joins Liverpool with both pedigree and potential. He is currently valued at €75 million on Transfermarkt and is expected to play a pivotal role in Liverpool’s pursuit of silverware this season.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Ekitiké carries with him not only the expectations of a hefty price tag but also the encouragement of seasoned professionals like Matip, who believes the forward is ready to make a lasting impression at Anfield.