Ekitike Apologises to Liverpool Fans After Costly Red Card in League Cup Win

Ekitike Apologises to Liverpool Fans After Costly Red Card in League Cup Win

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has issued an apology to supporters after being sent off for an overzealous celebration during Tuesday night’s League Cup clash against Southampton at Anfield.

The 23-year-old summer signing from Paris Saint-Germain came off the bench at half-time to replace record recruit Alexander Isak, who had earlier marked his Liverpool debut with a first-half goal.

With the score locked at 1-1, Ekitike pounced on Federico Chiesa’s precise pass in the 85th minute to score what proved to be the winner, sparking wild celebrations around the stadium.

However, the Frenchman’s joy quickly turned to regret as he removed his shirt in jubilation, earning a second yellow card and subsequent dismissal. His exit left Liverpool to nervously see out the remaining minutes with 10 men.

Speaking after the match, manager Arne Slot praised his striker’s impact but branded the celebration “stupid,” stressing the importance of composure in tight contests.

Ekitike later took to social media to apologise directly to the fans:

“I want to say sorry to all the Liverpool supporters, my teammates and the coach. Scoring my first goal at Anfield was an incredible feeling, but my celebration was a stupid mistake. I will learn from this.”

Despite the late drama, Liverpool’s 2-1 victory ensured their progression to the next round of the competition, maintaining momentum in Slot’s first season in charge.

For Ekitike, however, the focus will now be on rebuilding trust and making amends as he looks to establish himself in Liverpool’s attack alongside Isak and Chiesa.