As **Liverpool finalizes a £79 million deal** to sign **Hugo Ekitike** from Eintracht Frankfurt, an old evaluation by French football legend **Thierry Henry** has resurfaced and it’s giving fans plenty to think about.
The 23-year-old striker, who recently caught the eye of **Newcastle United** as well, is expected to play a major role in **Arne Slot’s evolving front line**, joining an exciting wave of new arrivals at Anfield including **Florian Wirtz**, **Jeremie Frimpong**, and **Milos Kerkez**.
Ekitike’s playing style and physical attributes have naturally led to comparisons with some of France’s greatest forwards particularly **Henry himself**. But while the Arsenal icon has acknowledged the youngster’s **raw ability**, he’s also offered a **measured and honest critique** of Ekitike’s game.
### Henry’s Honest Take: “The Talent Is There But He’s Not There Yet”
Speaking through football pundit **Micah Richards** on *The Rest is Football* podcast, Henry reportedly described Ekitike as a **player with flashes of brilliance** but one who hasn’t yet fully grasped the basics needed to thrive at the elite level.
> “He’s not what you’d call a frustrating player exactly,” Richards quoted Henry as saying, “but one minute he’ll do something amazing, the next he’ll struggle with something simple.”
Henry’s main concern lies in **Ekitike’s inconsistency** a trait that’s held back many promising forwards from becoming truly world-class. Still, the former striker also emphasized that **if Ekitike can find rhythm and discipline**, he has the **potential to become something special**.
### Big Shoes to Fill at Liverpool
Liverpool’s willingness to invest nearly £80 million is a sign of how highly they rate Ekitike. The club sees him as a long-term replacement for **Darwin Núñez**, who has struggled for consistency. But Henry’s remarks serve as a reminder: **raw potential doesn’t always translate to Premier League success** not without refinement.
Ekitike will now be tasked with **earning his place** at a club that has lofty ambitions not just in England, but across Europe. If he can unlock the consistency and composure Henry hinted at, this move could be the breakthrough moment of his career.
### Final Thoughts
Thierry Henry’s verdict wasn’t dismissive in fact, it was a subtle endorsement wrapped in constructive criticism. His message is clear: **Hugo Ekitike has the tools to succeed**, but the step up to Liverpool will require focus, maturity, and relentless work.
Now, all eyes turn to Anfield as fans wonder will Ekitike prove Henry right and rise to his full potential, or will the weight of expectation prove too much?
Either way, his journey just got a lot more interesting.
