Since their summer arrivals, Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike have become big talking points at Liverpool.
Ekitike was the first striker to arrive at Anfield this summer, and from the moment his move was announced, the debate has centred on how he and Alexander Isak might fit into the same team.
Up to now, Liverpool fans have not had the opportunity to watch the two forwards in action together. Instead, Arne Slot has managed their minutes carefully, often swapping one for the other as Isak continues to build up match sharpness.
Naturally, this approach has sparked speculation in the media, with pundits suggesting Ekitike may not be content playing second fiddle to the Swedish striker. Talk of a potential rivalry has grown louder as a result.
But ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Galatasaray, both players made it clear in training that there is no friction between them.
Isak and Ekitike show harmony in training
During an open session at the AXA Training Centre on Monday, footage captured by BeanymanSports showed Isak and Ekitike walking side by side, sharing jokes and looking at ease. Their body language suggested two teammates who are enjoying each other’s company, not rivals fighting for supremacy.
https://x.com/BeanymanSports/status/1972607403590885750?t=b46pJZ5xKRl0Qnpp5IOpAQ&s=19
This undermines the narrative that Ekitike has been frustrated by Isak’s arrival. In all likelihood, the Frenchman knew Liverpool’s transfer strategy well in advance and understood that Isak would be joining him this summer.
The first few weeks of their Liverpool careers may have created the impression that only one can thrive, but the signs behind the scenes tell a different story. Supporters should take encouragement from how quickly they seem to be building an understanding off the pitch.
Slot’s plan for his two new strikers
Attention now turns to whether Slot will finally unleash the pair together on the pitch. Many believe the long-term vision is to see Isak and Ekitike complementing one another, given the significant fees spent on both players.
Tuesday night’s trip to Istanbul looked like the perfect opportunity for Slot to start them in tandem, but Ekitike’s suspension against Crystal Palace disrupted those plans. As a result, Isak was forced to play longer than expected at Selhurst Park.
That added workload could see him rested against Galatasaray, with Ekitike instead leading the line. If that happens, supporters may need to wait a little longer before watching the partnership fully in action.
Even so, Slot could choose to give both players minutes together later in the match. For now, Liverpool fans will have to remain patient – but with their chemistry growing in training, it feels like only a matter of time before they showcase it during a competitive game.