Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike is set to face his former club Eintracht Frankfurt in a crucial Champions League encounter on Wednesday, as both teams grapple with inconsistent form this season. Frankfurt, once a Bundesliga powerhouse, has seen a dramatic decline since their historic third-place finish last year, which secured their Champions League berth. This season, the Eagles have managed just one win in their last five matches across all competitions, conceding a staggering 18 goals in the process. Their defensive vulnerabilities could prove a golden opportunity for Liverpool’s misfiring attack, which has struggled to find its rhythm in recent games. Ekitike, who joined Liverpool in a £69 million ($92 million) deal this summer, was Frankfurt’s standout player last season, netting 22 goals and providing 12 assists in 48 appearances. His departure, alongside other key players like Omar Marmoush and Randal Kolo Muani, has left Frankfurt in a rebuilding phase, marked by flashes of brilliance and moments of chaos. Despite their struggles, Frankfurt’s youthful squad showed promise with a 5-1 victory over Galatasaray in their Champions League opener, only to suffer a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid in their next outing. Liverpool, currently on a four-game losing streak, will be looking to capitalize on Frankfurt’s defensive frailties to reignite their season. Sporting director Timmo Hardung believes the match could be a turning point for Frankfurt, stating, ‘It will be a completely different game. Liverpool. Champions League. There’s nothing better in football.’
Champions League: Liverpool’s Ekitike returns to face floundering Frankfurt
