Ekitike tipped for Torres-level heights as Llorente offers bold verdict

Former Fernando Llorente has expressed strong belief in Hugo Ekitike’s long-term potential, even as the Liverpool forward faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines following a serious injury setback.

The 23-year-old’s campaign was abruptly halted after he ruptured his Achilles tendon during Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their recent European tie.

The injury not only rules him out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season but also sidelines him for this summer’s FIFA World Cup, dealing a significant blow to both club and country.

Ekitike, who has been Liverpool’s leading scorer this term, addressed supporters directly after confirmation of the injury, offering a message of resilience and gratitude. “It’s hard, maybe even unfair.

“But I’m grateful this is happening to me here, among you. I’m not alone. Your strength and your love will be my driving force. See you again soon, Anfield.”

His absence leaves a noticeable void in Liverpool’s attack at a critical stage of the season. Despite that, the team secured a derby victory over Everton at the weekend, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk finding the net.

However, concerns linger over the attacking line, particularly after a subdued display from Alexander Isak, who is expected to shoulder greater responsibility in Ekitike’s absence.

Llorente, speaking to Hajper, urged patience when assessing Ekitike’s trajectory but did not shy away from highlighting the forward’s ceiling. Drawing comparisons with Fernando Torres, the Spaniard emphasised both the promise and the distance still to be covered.

“Fernando Torres had an incredible career and Ekitike is still a young player with very few years at the top level.

“He has a lot of talent and can become a very high-level player, but I think it’s still too soon to compare him to someone who achieved so much.

“If he keeps growing, why not? He has many years ahead and it will depend on his hunger, consistency and work.”