Liverpool Preseason Observation: New aid Ekitik Liverpool’s debut was only 45 minutes long, which is amazing!

79 million pound summer new player Hugo Ekitic made only 45 minutes in his Liverpool debut.

Although rumors about Alexander Isaac related to Anfield have dominated the headlines, the £79 million ($105.6 million) new signing striker made his unofficial debut at the club.

Hugo Ekitic has just completed a big transfer from Frankfurt, entering the starting lineup of Slot's team coached against Japanese Yokohama Mariners, Liverpool's fourth pre-season friendly match in the summer.

The Frenchman did not make the roster of the recent 4-2 loss to AC Milan in Hong Kong, but in this packed and fans' anticipated match against Yokohama Mariners, he was entrusted with the heavy responsibility of starting the striker.

Strangely, Ekitic was already under pressure to prove himself during the game. This is because Liverpool is interested in Newcastle United striker Isaac, who is determined to leave the team. The debut player is eager to have a good start in Japan.

The 23-year-old was very dedicated in the first half, trying to impress, showing plenty of energy in the offensive three zones, both with and without the ball. Although he didn't touch a lot in this rather bland opening stage, he almost scored the first record for the Reds - a clever front-point back heel pass forced the goalkeeper to make a save.

Liverpool did not show their sharpest form in the first half, and Ekitic was affected by the bumpy field. He had several missed touches - he was not an isolated case in this regard - and it was difficult for the Reds to give him the ball multiple times. As expected by his height, he did pose a threat in set pieces, but in a highly threatening corner in the middle of the half, he failed to finish the touch cleanly.

As expected, Ekitic was replaced in the half because he was still adapting to the new environment, and Liverpool also hoped to let him gradually integrate into the team. Overall, the Frenchman showed some positive signs, but not much highlights worthy of the book.

When will Hugo Ekitic play for Liverpool next time?

Liverpool still has a few preseason games to play before the 2025-26 Premier League season begins. The Reds will return to Anfield for the next friendly match, against La Liga team Athletic Bilbao on August 5. After that, the focus will turn to the Community Shield at Wembley Stadium against Crystal Palace.

Ekitic will have his official match debut with the Reds on August 16, when Liverpool, as the defending champion, will face Bournemouth in the Premier League season opener.