Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has made a bright start to his Anfield career.
The 23-year-old has scored three goals in as many games after joining from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer.
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Despite his strong form, Ekitike has been overlooked for France’s squad for the opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Coach Didier Deschamps instead handed a first senior call-up to Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, another 23-year-old talent.
Akliouche Rewarded for Consistency
Akliouche has impressed with Monaco over the past season and was part of Thierry Henry’s silver-medal-winning squad at the Paris Olympics.
France begin their qualification campaign with a trip to Poland to face Ukraine on September 5, followed by a home clash against Iceland on September 9.
Competition for attacking places is fierce, with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Michael Olise, and Marcus Thuram also in the squad.
Ekitike, who scored five goals in five appearances for France U21 last season, will have to wait for his senior chance, reports Sports NDTV.
Deschamps has opted for experience and tactical stability as Les Bleus target automatic qualification for next year’s finals in North America.
Ekitike’s strong early-season form for Liverpool may yet force his way into future call-ups if he continues his prolific start.
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