Hugo Ekitike Reflects on PSG Struggles and How Playing with Messi, Mbappé and Neymar Shaped His Career

Hugo Ekitike has opened up about his challenging spell at Paris Saint-Germain F.C., describing it as a difficult but valuable learning experience that helped shape his current success with Liverpool F.C..

Despite struggling for minutes during his time in Paris, the 23-year-old forward says training alongside some of football’s greatest players helped transform his game.

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Learning from the “MNM” Trio

At PSG, Ekitike shared the dressing room with the famous attacking trio of:

• Lionel Messi

• Kylian Mbappé

• Neymar

The forward admitted it was difficult trying to match their level on the pitch.

“I can’t lie, it was difficult for me to go on the pitch and be able to do what they were doing on the same level. I think I’ve never reached that level yet.”

However, Ekitike explained that watching them train and play up close gave him invaluable insight into elite football.

He said he learned movement, finishing, confidence, and decision-making, all of which improved his development as a striker.

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A Tough Period in Paris

Ekitike joined PSG on loan from Stade de Reims in 2022 before making the move permanent the following year.

But opportunities were limited.

Across 32 appearances, he managed only three goals and four assists, struggling to secure a regular starting spot.

Although he won the Ligue 1 title and the Trophée des Champions, his situation worsened in 2023 after tensions with the club hierarchy.

Following his refusal to be included in a deal involving Randal Kolo Muani, Ekitike was frozen out of the squad and did not make a single matchday appearance after August 2023.

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Rebuilding His Career in Germany

Rather than allowing the setback to derail his career, Ekitike moved to Germany and revived his form with Eintracht Frankfurt.

His performances there reminded many observers why PSG had initially pursued him as one of Europe’s most promising young forwards.

The resurgence eventually earned him a £69 million move to Liverpool.

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Thriving in the Premier League

Since arriving at Anfield, Ekitike has quickly adapted to life in the Premier League.

During the 2025/2026 season, he has already scored 11 goals in 26 league appearances, becoming an important attacking option for Liverpool.

Looking back, the French striker now views his difficult PSG period differently.

“When I look back, it wasn’t a great time for me, but I think that’s what I needed at that moment.”

For Ekitike, the lessons learned alongside some of the greatest players in football history helped lay the foundation for the success he is now enjoying in England. ⚽