How Liverpool could fit both Ekitike and Isak in the same team: Five options...

Liverpool's transfer business this summer has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Premier League champions have not only overhauled their squad but have done so by acquiring two of the most sought-after number nines in European football: Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt and Alexander Isak from Newcastle. This dual acquisition of top-tier strikers is a rarity in modern football, raising the question: what is new boss Arne Slot's plan?

While a classic 4-4-2 formation seems like a relic of the past, here are five ways Slot could creatively integrate both forwards into his tactical setup.

1. An ultra-narrow 4-2-3-1

This approach would see Liverpool deploy a compressed 4-2-3-1, with Mohamed Salah and Ekitike playing as narrow attackers behind Isak. The system would rely on flying full-backs like Jeremie Frimpong to provide width. Ekitike's tendency to drop into a number 10 role and Salah's natural drift infield make this a plausible and dynamic option. This setup would allow for fluid movement and a flexible attack, though it would be a significant departure from Liverpool's recent tactics.

2. Ekitike replaces Diaz as left winger

The simplest solution is to convert Ekitike into a new left winger, replacing Luis Diaz who has joined Bayern Munich. Although Ekitike has limited experience in this role, his profile as a strong dribbler and his ability to carry the ball align with how Slot used wingers at his previous club. Ekitike's impressive dribbling and attacking involvement stats from last season suggest he has the makings of an ideal fit for this role.

3. A 4-2-2-2 with two strikers

Slot could opt for a high-risk, high-reward 4-2-2-2 formation, similar to the one Ekitike thrived in at Frankfurt. This system would see Ekitike and Isak form a genuine strike partnership, instinctively swapping positions to confuse defenders. While this formation is often used when a team is chasing a game, it could be a potent option. However, it would require a two-man midfield to cover a lot of ground, making it a risky choice against strong opposition.

4. 'Dual eights' in the De Bruyne & Silva mould

In a more unconventional move, Slot could adapt a 4-3-3 formation by playing Ekitike and Florian Wirtz as aggressive "dual eights," similar to how Manchester City uses Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva. This would see them operate in front of a holding midfielder, creating a more attacking and fluid midfield. While a City-esque system would be exciting, it would be vulnerable to counter-attacks and a major shift for a team accustomed to a different style of play.

5. The art of rotation

Perhaps the most logical solution is that both players won't consistently start together. With Liverpool likely to play over 60 games this season, squad rotation will be key to managing player fatigue and adapting to different opponents. Ekitike could serve as a valuable "second-best" option across multiple forward positions, ensuring the team's attack remains fresh and unpredictable. In today's fast-paced football world, a "best XI" is a rare sight, and Slot's acquisitions may simply be about building a deeper, more versatile squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.