Hugo Ekitike equals Darwin Núñez’s historic Liverpool debut with goal and assist

Liverpool’s new signing Hugo Ekitike made an immediate impact on Friday (15), becoming only the second player in club history to score and provide an assist on his Premier League debut a feat previously achieved by Darwin Núñez in 2022.

The 22-year-old French striker starred in Liverpool’s 3–1 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield, announcing himself to the Kop with a composed finish and a decisive pass that set up Dominik Szoboszlai’s second-half strike. The performance instantly drew comparisons to Núñez’s debut against Fulham two seasons ago, when the Uruguayan also delivered a goal and an assist in his first league outing.

Blistering Start After Summer Move

Signed from Eintracht Frankfurt during the summer transfer window, Ekitike had already shown flashes of his talent in the previous week’s Community Shield, where he opened his Liverpool goal account. Against Bournemouth, he combined clinical finishing with intelligent movement and creative vision, quickly winning over fans and teammates.

His assist came from a perfectly timed pass that split the Bournemouth defence, allowing Szoboszlai to slot the ball into the bottom corner. The chemistry between the pair was a highlight of Liverpool’s attacking play.

Rare Company in Liverpool History

Ekitike’s debut puts him in exclusive company  Núñez remains the only other player to achieve the goal-and-assist milestone on a Premier League debut for Liverpool. For a club steeped in attacking legends, it’s a promising sign for what could be a breakout season for the French forward.

New Arrival in Defence

The night also marked another important moment for Liverpool, as the club formally introduced 17-year-old Italian defender Giovanni Leoni, signed from Parma. The teenager was in attendance at Anfield and spoke of his excitement about joining the Reds.

“I’m so happy to be here. It’s an incredible feeling and an honour to be at this club,” Leoni told Liverpool’s official media. “When I heard about Liverpool’s interest, I couldn’t believe it. I thought, ‘Wow, this is unbelievable. I couldn’t say no!’”

With Ekitike’s dream start and fresh talent arriving in defence, Liverpool fans have every reason to be optimistic about the season ahead.