Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has delivered a tongue-in-cheek social media comment referencing former transfer target Marc Guehi, aimed at teammate Ryan Gravenberch. The playful dig came after Gravenberch was unexpectedly deployed in defence during Liverpool's emphatic 6-0 Champions League victory over Qarabag, a result that secured their place in the competition's Round of 16.
Midfielder Forced into Defensive Role
The 23-year-old Dutch international Gravenberch found himself partnering Virgil van Dijk at centre-back due to mounting injury concerns within the Liverpool squad. Ibrahima Konate remains unavailable while on compassionate leave following his father's passing, and Joe Gomez suffered fresh fitness issues during Saturday's dramatic loss to Bournemouth.
Social Media Exchange Goes Viral
Following the match, Gravenberch posted a series of images on Instagram with the caption "Top 8," prompting supportive responses from several Liverpool teammates. Ekitike, however, offered particularly notable praise alongside a humorous reference, commenting: "Guehi! ! !" accompanied by a crying with laughter emoji.
The French forward's quip appears to draw comparison between Gravenberch's defensive performance and that of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who was a Liverpool transfer target before joining Manchester City earlier this month. Whether Ekitike was genuinely comparing their abilities or simply teasing Liverpool's transfer disappointment remains unclear, but the comment has certainly captured attention among supporters.
Transfer Saga Adds Context
Guehi's potential move to Anfield collapsed dramatically during the summer transfer window, despite the defender having completed a medical on deadline day. The 25-year-old eventually joined Manchester City in January after his contract at Selhurst Park was set to expire this summer.
Reflecting on the failed Liverpool move, Guehi recently stated: "It was very close. The medical was pretty much done and then it got pulled at the last minute. My mindset is what will be, will be. It would be doing Palace a disservice if I was acting a certain way because the club's given me everything."
Defensive Crisis Deepens
Liverpool's defensive options have become increasingly limited in recent months. The situation began with Giovanni Leoni suffering a severe knee injury on his debut that ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign. Van Dijk and Konate have established themselves as the preferred central defensive partnership, with Gomez providing cover when available.
However, with Konate absent for personal reasons and Gomez facing renewed fitness concerns, Liverpool entered their Champions League clash against Qarabag with only one recognised centre-back available. This forced manager Arne Slot to improvise, resulting in Gravenberch's unexpected defensive deployment.
Ekitike's social media activity continues to endear him to Liverpool supporters, with the forward quickly becoming something of a cult figure through his online interactions. His latest comment, while lighthearted, underscores the broader context of Liverpool's defensive challenges and transfer market frustrations as they navigate multiple competitions this season.
