'In EVERY way': Hugo Ekitiké's BRILLIANT reason for rejecting Newcastle for Liverpool

Hugo Ekitiké rejected Newcastle United this summer in order to seal a move to Liverpool. He's finally spoken publicly on his reason why.

Hugo Ekitiké took a massive chance this summer as he picked Liverpool as his next club. He did that despite knowing full well that the Reds hoped to sign another elite striker.

In fact, everyone knew the name of that striker, too. Alexander Isak topped the Reds' shopping list and a big-money move was in the offing.

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Ektiké, who had just enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Eintracht Frankfurt, knew he could go and be the main-man at a club. Instead, he chose Liverpool and took on the challenge of competing for a spot.

If the Reds did indeed sign Isak, of course.

And the Frenchman certainly had a chance to guarantee regular football with a UEFA Champions League side. That's because Newcastle United tried to sign him, presumably as a replacement for Isak (even if they claimed that wasn't the case at the time).

Ekitiké said no, however, in what was something of a surprise decision at the time. So why did he do it?

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Why Hugo Ekitiké chose Liverpool

Ekitiké was asked about his decision in an interview with Canal+. Foot Mercato have relayed his comments and they’re pretty blunt about why Liverpool, and not Newcastle, was the right move for him.

“Why Liverpool instead of Newcastle?” said Ekitiké. It was my choice, it’s what I wanted.

"Because I had a better feeling coming here, and I knew it was the right time and the right place for me. I wanted to return to the top level and this time come back better equipped, more ready in every way.

"And I don’t think I made a mistake.”

It’s a brave move from Ekitiké but he’s certainly taken the decision for the right reasons. He wants to compete at the very, very top.

That’s something he’s tried before, as he references. A failed spell with Paris Saint-Germain threatened to end Ekitiké’s chances as a striker competing for the highest honours.

He wasn’t going to risk losing that opportunity again. Liverpool were happy to give him what he needs and there’s no question that they believe he can usurp Isak as the main striker.

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