Young French Striker Hugo Ekitike Left Out Of Squad Despite Liverpool Form

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-08-27 16:07:05 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-31 20:20:44

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France boss Didier Deschamps has opted against calling up former youth international Hugo Ekitike for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Despite the 19-year-old's impressive start to life at Liverpool, Deschamps has instead rewarded attackers Maghnes Akliouche and Rayan Cherki with calls in a youthful 25-man squad.

Ekitike, who joined Liverpool from Ligue 1 outfit Montpellier in the summer, has caught the eye with his confident performances in pre-season and during his cameo appearances for the Reds in the Premier League. He is yet to start a top-flight match for the club, but his dazzling displays have already led to calls for him to receive a call-up from France.

However, Deschamps has opted to stick with Akliouche and Cherki instead. Both attackers have impressed for their respective clubs this term: Akliouche has scored twice in six matches for Marseille, while Cherki has emerged as a regular for Lyon.

The decision not to call up Ekitike is a bold one from Deschamps, but it is testament to the depth of talent that France currently have at their disposal, especially in attack. With Kylian Mbappe, Olivier Giroud, and Anthony Martial also in the mix, France have plenty of options up top, leaving Ekitike to continue his development in England for now.

The Frenchman's sublime skills and clinical finish have already seen him make a positive impression at Anfield, and it won't be surprising if he receives a senior call-up in the future. For now, though, Deschamps has opted for other players ahead of Ekitike.

Go!