After a relatively subdued period in the summer of 2024 for player acquisitions, Liverpool accelerated their activity this year, investing over £400 million in fresh talent, with a notable emphasis on bolstering their attacking options.
The acquisition of Florian Wirtz for £100m marked the club’s initial significant move to strengthen their attack during the summer. Subsequently, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak joined the team, enhancing both the quality and depth of the reigning champions’ forward line.
Arne Slot’s squad began their season impressively with five consecutive victories in the Premier League. The arrival of the aforementioned trio has garnered praise from Danny Murphy, a former midfielder for the Reds.
Danny Murphy on Wirtz, Ekitike and Isak signings
The former England international begins his assessment of the new players by sharing his opinion on Florian Wirtz. “I’m a huge admirer,” he stated to FourFourTwo. “He displays remarkable courage and inventiveness, and he doesn’t shy away from risking mistakes in his efforts to secure victories. Additionally, he possesses an innate ability that I believe cannot be taught – the capacity to perceive the broader context of the game early, before anyone else on the field recognizes it.
“Liverpool didn’t have anyone quite like him previously, and honestly, it’s been a while since they had a player with a similar profile, perhaps not since Philippe Coutinho. It’s crucial to avoid predictability. When success comes, opposing teams start devising strategies to counter your known strengths, necessitating the introduction of new challenges. If Liverpool aimed to recruit a player with that particular set of attributes, they undoubtedly secured the best available option.”
While Newcastle adopted a firm stance regarding Alexander Isak, Liverpool strategically moved for Hugo Ekitike, who made an immediate impact by scoring in the Community Shield. He further contributed with two additional goals and an assist before the arrival of the Swedish player at Merseyside.
“There’s a lot to appreciate about him,” Murphy commented regarding the French player. “I’m impressed by his self-assurance, the conviction he displays when stepping onto the field, whether it’s at Wembley or Anfield, to try different things and express his abilities. It requires considerable courage for a young player, particularly with a significant price tag attached to him.
“His understanding of his teammates has greatly impressed me. He seems to have a clear awareness of the play around him. His delicate touches have particularly stood out, as I initially perceived him as a physically imposing player capable of outmaneuvering opponents and scoring goals. I hadn’t previously observed the finesse that fans admire. But all his actions are purposeful, not just for showboating.”
Murphy also holds the view that Ekitike’s ability to play multiple positions will be useful to him throughout the season. “Ekitike has the benefit of being adaptable,” Murphy commented further. “He has the ability to play on the wing and also in a slightly withdrawn role, it is this adaptability that is always of great use over the course of a long season.”
Isak’s move was finalised on deadline day for £125m and Murphy believes he will be a great asset to the team.
“Isak is a well rounded player. He has the speed to make runs, has great feet so can easily link up with other players and also has a knack for scoring typical striker goals.
“The main reason that he stood out last season was his fitness, this allowed him to gain both strength and confidence. When he first arrived in England his link-up play was less consistent, but was much improved last season.”
