Ekitike scored the Reds’ second goal just before the half-hour mark—a strike that proved to be the difference in a tense 2–1 win over Everton, despite Idrissa Gueye pulling one back in the 58th minute.
Former Liverpool defender **Stephen Warnock** was quick to applaud the debutant, calling his display “impressive” and backing manager **Arne Slot’s** bold decision to start him ahead of record signing **Alexander Isak**.
### Ekitike Embraces Healthy Competition
Ekitike was replaced by Isak midway through the second half, echoing the rotation from midweek. While the pair haven’t shared the pitch yet, the Frenchman spoke warmly about his teammate in his post-match interview with TNT Sports:
> *“He’s a very good player, and I always watched him before joining. His presence is great for me to learn and improve.”*
He continued with humility and optimism:
> *“It’s competition, but I know we’ll play together and make a difference. I hope we’ll share the pitch one day.”*
And when asked if his goal had given Slot a selection dilemma, Ekitike smiled and quipped:
> *“That’s the coach’s problem! I’m just doing my job.”*
### Slot’s Dilemma—or Liverpool’s Advantage?
Liverpool’s decision to sign both Ekitike and Isak for massive fees raised eyebrows over the summer. Critics questioned whether spending nearly **£270 million combined** on two strikers competing for one spot was wise.
But Slot’s strategy is already proving its worth. With Isak still finding match sharpness after a summer layoff, Ekitike’s energy and finishing have provided Liverpool with crucial depth and versatility. In today’s congested football calendar, relying on just one No. 9 would have been a far riskier gamble.
### Winning Over the Kop
At just 23 years old, Ekitike is already showing why Liverpool invested **£69 million** in him. Beyond his goal-scoring, it’s his attitude—gracious, humble, and team-focused—that has captured the admiration of fans.
Kopites love a player who bleeds for the badge, and Ekitike’s debut derby heroics, coupled with his selfless comments afterward, suggest he could become a fan favorite for years to come.
As the season unfolds, one thing seems certain: **Liverpool may not have a striker problem at all—in fact, they might have struck gold twice.**
What do you think: Should Slot find a way to start **both Ekitike and Isak** together, or keep rotating them for balance?
