Hugo Ekitike has exploded at Liverpool, scoring 10 goals and bagging an assist to his name in 23 games. The Frenchman has turned out to be the only positive transfer in the historic summer window of the club
Talking about his inspiration, Ekitike has always maintained that he was heavily influenced by Neymar Jr., the third unanimously admired superstar in the Messi-Ronaldo era.
The Brazil star is the blueprint or living evidence for “Magic” in football, which is observed to be less common in modern version. With his style of play, Neymar has inscribed the love for football into many young ballers, blooming into scene currently.
Ekitike had the opportunity to play alongside the popular MNM trio during his loan spell at PSG.
He had shared how all the three helped him improve his game. Especially Neymar, who is not replicable in Ekitike’s opinion.
Back in August, Ekitike shared on his Instagram account a video of him watching highlights of Neymar playing for Barcelona. He eventually lived out his childhood dream to play alongside his favourite footballer.
Ekitike watching Neymar at Barcelona highlights for inspiration 🔥
— AS (fan) (@ArneSlotBall) August 18, 2025
pic.twitter.com/dIrG2dQQE4
With much respect and Love, Neymar has now sent a signed Santos jersey with a message, “For Heki, with love”. Ekitike posted a pic of that jersey in his recent post on Instagram.
Ekitike has proved his admiration on of Neymar many occasions. When asked about his favourite footballers, he has always had Neymar in the list.
To answer who were the three greatest footballers he had played with during an interview for ESPN, he named Neymar alongside Messi and Mbappe.
Hugo Ekitike is a true carrier of the “joga Bonito” playstyle, the Brazilian style of football which Neymar took to the next level. He has been in sublime touch and has entertained the fans with silky dribbles and flashy footwork. There is no disagreement in the claim, that Hugo Ekitike is just Neymar at the Striker position, paying a great tribute to his master.
