Liverpool manager Arne Slot didn’t hold back after his side’s League Cup victory over Southampton, singling out striker Hugo Ekitike for what he called a “stupid” and “needless” moment of indiscipline. Ekitike’s match-winning goal was quickly overshadowed by his decision to celebrate alone, ignoring teammate Federico Chiesa’s crucial assist — and earning a second yellow card in the process.
Ekitike’s Late Winner Overshadowed by Celebration Gaffe
In what should have been a memorable moment for Liverpool’s summer signing, Hugo Ekitike found the net in the 85th minute to seal a hard-fought 2–1 win at Anfield. The goal was set up brilliantly by Federico Chiesa, who beat the defense with a perfectly weighted ball into the box, allowing Ekitike to slot home past Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.
Rather than celebrating with Chiesa, the 21-year-old Frenchman sprinted to the corner flag, removed his shirt, and posed for the crowd — despite already being on a yellow card. The result? A second booking and a red card just moments after becoming the hero.
Slot: “Needless and Stupid” Decision from Ekitike
Speaking to ITV after the match, Slot expressed clear frustration over Ekitike’s conduct.
“Maybe I’m a bit old school,” Slot said. “But when a teammate lays it on a plate for you like that, you turn around and acknowledge them. Instead, he celebrated on his own and got himself sent off — for what? Showing your name to the crowd?”
Slot called the celebration “not just needless, but stupid,” criticizing both the lack of appreciation for Chiesa’s assist and the impulsive decision to remove his shirt while already on a yellow.
Manager Highlights Importance of Emotional Control
Slot elaborated further in his post-match press conference, underlining the importance of composure and maturity, especially in high-pressure moments.
“The first yellow card was already unnecessary,” he said. “You have to keep your emotions in check, no matter how frustrating it gets. If every foul leads to a second yellow, you’re leaving your team vulnerable. That’s what happened here.”
Referencing his own past mistakes, Slot admitted he’s no stranger to emotional moments but emphasized that players must avoid letting emotions boil over into costly mistakes.
Praise for Chiesa and Liverpool’s Tribute to Matt Beard
Despite the Ekitike incident dominating post-match discussions, Slot took time to praise Federico Chiesa’s contribution and the club’s tribute to former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard.
“I’d rather start with something positive,” Slot said. “What the club did for Matt Beard — that level of respect is what makes me proud to be here. It shows what Liverpool stands for.”
He also reiterated his appreciation for Chiesa’s selfless play: “If I’d scored a goal like that, I’d immediately thank the guy who made it happen. Chiesa deserved that recognition.”
While Liverpool advanced in the League Cup, the spotlight shifted from the result to Hugo Ekitike’s lack of discipline. With a suspension now looming, Arne Slot made it clear that individual moments of glory should never come at the expense of the team — or respect for teammates.
