Wayne Rooney believes Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has set the benchmark for summer recruits after declaring him the Premier League’s best signing this season.
The former Manchester United and England captain delivered his verdict following Ekitike’s latest decisive contribution, underlining the striker’s growing influence in Arne Slot’s attack and his importance at a critical stage of the campaign.
Ekitike, who has Eritrean heritage, continues to enhance his reputation in England after another telling display during Liverpool’s 2–1 victory away at Tottenham.
The 23-year-old was again among the goals as the Reds capitalised on their numerical advantage following the dismissals of Cristian Romero and Xavi Simons, turning sustained pressure into a controlled win.
His performance further strengthened the argument that Liverpool’s recruitment team identified a forward capable of thriving under intense scrutiny.
The former Eintracht Frankfurt striker has now scored eight Premier League goals in 16 appearances, a return that places him among the division’s most efficient attackers.
His consistency has become even more valuable with Alexander Isak sidelined after suffering a fractured leg, a development that is set to increase Ekitike’s responsibility as Liverpool navigate a congested festive schedule.
Speaking on his podcast after the match, Rooney highlighted the mental strength behind Ekitike’s impact, praising both his output and all-round contribution.
“He’s been one of, if not the best, signing in the Premier League.
“And fair play to him because the pressure on him must have been huge because obviously he cost quite a bit of money as well, but with Liverpool bringing Wirtz in and Isak, there was a huge amount of pressure on him to try and get in the team.
“And he’s been the one who’s the most consistent one for them in terms of scoring goals, and his overall play has been really good. And he’s playing with a bit of an attitude, which I like as well from him.”
Ekitike’s second-half header at Tottenham marked his 11th goal across all competitions this season and underlined why Liverpool moved decisively to secure his signature in the summer. He has now found the net five times in his last three league outings, a run that reflects improved confidence and sharper movement inside the box.
With Wolves next on the horizon after Christmas, Liverpool are increasingly shaping their attacking plans around Ekitike’s form.
