Liverpool have provided an update on Hugo Ekitike’s situation following the dramatic ending to their Carabao Cup victory over Southampton at Anfield.
The French striker, who arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer, came off the bench to score what proved to be the winning goal. However, his celebration quickly turned costly as he removed his shirt, earning a second yellow card and a subsequent dismissal.
That sending-off means Ekitike will serve a one-match suspension in domestic competition, ruling him out of this weekend’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
Who Replaces Ekitike Against Palace?
With Ekitike sidelined, head coach Arne Slot must shuffle his attacking options. Alexander Isak, who also found the net against Southampton to open his Liverpool account, appears the most likely candidate to lead the line at Selhurst Park, despite still working toward full match sharpness.
Federico Chiesa, instrumental in the cup win with two assists, also gives Slot added flexibility and could play a key role from the bench.
Depth Tested Once Again
Liverpool’s squad strength has already been under scrutiny this season, with injuries and rotation affecting team selection. The setback to debutant Giovanni Leoni, who picked up a late knee issue in the same match, further complicates matters as the club awaits updates on his condition.
This summer’s high-profile arrivals — including Florian Wirtz and record signing Isak — were designed to give Liverpool greater attacking variety. Yet losing Ekitike, who has already scored five goals in his early Liverpool career, represents another hurdle for Slot to navigate.
Eyes on Selhurst Park
Despite the disruption, Liverpool remain confident in their depth and attacking firepower. As the team looks to maintain their perfect Premier League start, the focus now turns to whether Isak can build on his first Liverpool strike and seize the opportunity in the league