Liverpool
How Arne Slot’s Vision Secured Hugo Ekitiké’s Move to Liverpool
Hugo Ekitiké chose Liverpool after Arne Slot’s vision convinced him to join the Reds.
In a surprising turn this summer, Hugo Ekitiké chose Liverpool over other contenders, including Newcastle United, following an influential discussion with Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot. Reports from L’Equipe and ESPN reveal that a single online call served as the catalyst for Ekitiké’s decision, during which Slot outlined his tactical plans and how the French striker would fit into his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
Slot emphasized his need for a striker who is dynamic, creative, and mobile; a No.9 who could link up effectively with teammates, demonstrate intelligence on the ball, execute runs behind the defence, and show tenacity when out of possession. Ekitiké was evidently captivated by what has been described as a Slot “masterclass,” and immediately recognized himself as the ideal player for this role.
This decision comes amid scrutiny over Liverpool’s forward options. Darwin Núñez, who arrived with high expectations after an £85 million transfer, has struggled to justify his fee through three seasons at Anfield. Meanwhile, Luis Díaz, often deployed as a makeshift centre forward in the previous campaign, is widely expected to depart, with Bayern Munich reportedly interested.
Just under two weeks after their conversation, Ekitiké is poised to make his debut for Liverpool and may feature in the upcoming friendly against AC Milan. His Premier League debut could follow swiftly when Liverpool commence their title defense against Bournemouth on August 15.
This transfer highlights Slot’s direct impact and vision, potentially signaling a new chapter for Liverpool’s attacking strategy this season.
Liverpool
Luis Díaz’s Absence in Liverpool’s Milan Friendly Explained by Arne Slot
Arne Slot confirms Luis Díaz missed Liverpool’s AC Milan friendly due to future speculation.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly addressed the absence of Luis Díaz from the recent friendly defeat against AC Milan, attributing it to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the player’s future. Díaz, whose contract situation is becoming urgent with just two years remaining, remains a key figure Liverpool wish to secure for the long term.
Díaz did not feature in the squad for the friendly held in Hong Kong, alongside Darwin Núñez, who is also expected by many to leave the club this summer especially after the arrival of Hugo Ekitiké from Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite this, Liverpool stakeholders remain hopeful that Díaz will remain with the club.
When questioned about Díaz’s exclusion, Slot was candid: “due to speculation on his future.”
Díaz himself has been transparent about his position, acknowledging ongoing negotiations and the possibility of a transfer. He stated, “We are in the midst of negotiations, talking with Liverpool and everyone who is approaching us. I am very calm where I am and very happy. [But I will] make the best decision for me.” This openness underscores an important moment in Liverpool’s squad management as they navigate contract renewals and potential transfers ahead of the new season.
Liverpool
Liverpool Fall to AC Milan in Pre-Season Friendly Despite Szoboszlai’s Brilliance
Liverpool suffer a 4-2 pre-season defeat to AC Milan with Szoboszlai’s notable goal the highlight.
Liverpool experienced their first pre-season setback of the summer with a 4-2 defeat against AC Milan in Hong Kong. The Reds initially dominated possession and showcased promising attacking play. A standout moment came from 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who set up Dominik Szoboszlai for a remarkable finish, equalizing the match with a strike into the top corner.
Throughout the first half, Christian Pulisic came close to putting Milan ahead twice, while Liverpool’s Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah threatened to regain the lead. The half ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
Liverpool made significant changes at halftime, but Milan’s counter-attacking prowess soon told. Ruben Loftus-Cheek calmly converted Leão’s pass to regain Milan’s lead. Later, a rapid break saw Noah Okafor score a precise shot, pushing Milan’s advantage to 3-1.
As Liverpool sought a comeback, Ryan Gravenberch narrowly missed with a shot that hit the crossbar, and Jeremie Frimpong almost found the net with his inaugural goal for the Reds. A late header from Cody Gakpo reduced the deficit, but a costly error between Kostas Tsimikas and goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili allowed Okafor to seal Milan’s fourth.
The player ratings reflect a mix of performances from Liverpool, with Szoboszlai receiving notable praise for his goal, while newcomers like Ngumoha and Gakpo impressed. For Milan, Leão and Okafor stood out with exceptional contributions.
Despite the loss, the friendly offered Liverpool valuable insights ahead of the Premier League season.
Arsenal
Dominic Solanke Doubts Manchester United’s Top Four Prospects for 2025–26
Dominic Solanke predicts Manchester United will miss out on the Premier League top four in 2025–26.
Tottenham Hotspur striker Dominic Solanke has expressed skepticism over Manchester United’s chances of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League for the 2025–26 season. Speaking on DA4P’s YouTube channel, Solanke provided his predictions for the teams likely to qualify for the Champions League spots.
Solanke confidently included Tottenham first in his top-four forecast, followed by Liverpool and Manchester City. When questioned about Manchester United’s potential to challenge for a Champions League position next term, Solanke simply replied, “nah,” instead opting to include Arsenal as a contender.
This blunt verdict reflects the ongoing struggles faced by the Red Devils, who endured a difficult previous season. While Solanke’s confidence in Tottenham’s qualification might raise some eyebrows—given their 17th-place finish last season—his assessment of Manchester United aligns with widespread doubts about their immediate recovery under Ruben Amorim’s management.
Solanke’s straightforward response underlines the challenges ahead for Manchester United, suggesting the club faces another challenging campaign outside Europe’s elite competition.
