Liverpool’s trip to Germany has an extra storyline brewing — one involving a familiar face and a friendly warning.
Eintracht Frankfurt boss Dino Toppmöller has sent a clear message to his former player Hugo Ekitike ahead of their Europa League clash, hinting that he fully expects the Frenchman to be in Arne Slot’s starting lineup.
Ekitike, who spent a season and a half under Toppmöller before moving to Liverpool, could line up against his old manager for the first time.
The 23-year-old has quickly settled at Anfield, scoring five goals and adding an assist in his opening 11 games — and his former coach clearly hasn’t forgotten what he’s capable of.
“He was my player for one and a half years and my main striker,” Toppmöller told TNT Sports.
“It’s very nice to see how he directly fits perfectly in the squad of Liverpool. He has already scored his goals, and he already has a big impact on the game for them, and I expect him also to start tomorrow.”
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Old connections, new test for Hugo Ekitike
Arne Slot faces a tricky decision ahead of kick-off. His side have lost four straight games in all competitions — and a fifth defeat would equal a 72-year-old club record.
Alexander Isak has yet to find the net since the Carabao Cup win over Southampton, while Ekitike’s energy and finishing have impressed fans and pundits alike.
With that form, Toppmöller seems certain his former striker will lead the line — though he hopes the reunion doesn’t come back to haunt him.
“We are looking forward to seeing him,” the Frankfurt boss added, “and hopefully at the end of the game we will be the winners.”
Toppmöller also brushed off talk that it’s the “right time” to face Liverpool, insisting their recent struggles don’t reflect their quality.
“They were unlucky in a lot of situations,” he said. “They were in all games the better team. It’s not so easy for every opponent to play here, but we know what kind of quality they have.”
As Liverpool look to end their rough patch and Ekitike prepares to face a familiar voice in the dugout, fans can expect emotion, energy, and maybe even a few fireworks in Frankfurt.
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