Former Liverpool star Michael Owen has drawn a striking comparison between Reds forward Hugo Ekitike and England captain Harry Kane, lauding the Frenchman's potential to become one of the world's top strikers.
Ekitike's Rapid Rise at Anfield
Since joining Liverpool, the 23-year-old Ekitike has made an immediate impact, showcasing his talent with a series of impressive performances. In a recent match against Newcastle United, he scored a crucial double in a 4-1 victory, bringing his Premier League goal tally into double figures for the season.
With Alexander Isak sidelined due to injury, Ekitike has seized the opportunity to lead the line, earning comparisons to Liverpool legend Fernando Torres for his clinical finishing and dynamic play.
Owen's Bold Prediction
In an exclusive interview, Owen expressed his admiration for Ekitike, stating that the striker possesses all the attributes needed to reach the pinnacle of the sport. "Everybody can see Ekitike is unbelievable," Owen remarked. "He's going to be one of the best in the world, if he's not already."
Owen went on to predict that within the next 12 months, Ekitike could be mentioned in the same breath as elite forwards like Harry Kane, Robert Lewandowski, and Kylian Mbappe. "Over the last five years or so, if you're debating top strikers in the world, you're talking Kane, you're talking Lewandowski, you're talking Mbappe and players like that," he said. "I'm putting him right up there in that category in the next year or so."
Strengths and Self-Belief
Owen highlighted Ekitike's comprehensive skill set, noting his speed, strength, technical ability, and unselfish play. "There's nothing that I think he's weak at," Owen explained. "He's direct, he's quick, he's strong, he's brave, got a good touch, holds the ball up well, he scores goals and unselfish. I just love him."
He also praised the striker's mental fortitude, contrasting it with players who rely on confidence. "I wasn't a confidence player, players that rely on confidence are streaky and they're not consistent at all," Owen said. "He's got all the attributes. He looks as if he's constantly got a huge dollop of self-belief, I've not really seen him have a dip. He's been really good since he's been at Liverpool."
Future Challenges and Squad Dynamics
As Liverpool look ahead under manager Arne Slot, questions arise about how to integrate Ekitike into the squad alongside other key players like Florian Wirtz and the returning Alexander Isak. Owen acknowledged the competition but remained optimistic about Ekitike's role.
"There will be occasions when they can both play in the same team," Owen noted, referring to Ekitike and Isak. "But we all know football nowadays, there are so many games and there's always opportunities."
He emphasized Isak's value as a £125 million signing, describing him as an exceptional player who, despite a slow start and injury setbacks, is expected to have a successful career at Liverpool. "Put it this way, when Isak's back and fit, you're not going to try to find a place for somebody that's just cost 125 million quid," Owen said. "He's an exceptional player. There's no question that he's going to be a huge asset to Liverpool."
Owen concluded by expressing his excitement for Ekitike's future, predicting that the young striker will continue to develop and make a significant impact at Anfield.
