Liverpool's number one striker admits 'struggling to breathe' while playing alongside Messi

Striker Hugo Ekitike admits that his period playing alongside Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe at PSG was difficult, but precisely that experience aided his growth and success.

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has recently shared notable insights about his time playing at Paris Saint-Germain, where he once stood alongside three world-class superstars: Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe. Despite having limited opportunities to play while at PSG, the French forward believes that experience was a crucial stepping stone that helped him mature and excel in England.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Ekitike admitted that training and playing alongside world-class stars was a significant challenge for a young player like him at that time. “I have to be honest, for me it was very difficult to get on the field and play at their level. I think even now I haven't reached that standard,” the Liverpool striker candidly stated.

However, precisely the fiercely competitive environment at PSG helped Ekitike learn many important things. “That was a period where I learned a lot on the pitch and in training. I observed many incredible things from them,” he shared.

According to Ekitike, the lessons he gained were not merely about individual technique. “It wasn't just skills. I learned how to move without the ball, how to touch the ball, how to score, and how to maintain confidence during a match,” the French forward explained.

Although admitting his time in Paris wasn't the most successful period in his career, Ekitike still feels grateful for the opportunity to share a dressing room with legends of world football. “Looking back, it wasn't a fantastic time for me, but I think it was exactly what I needed at that moment. I learned a great deal,” he said.

“I am very grateful to have played alongside such excellent players. It's special that I can say I've played with the greatest footballer in history,” Ekitike added, referring to Lionel Messi.

After moving to Liverpool for a fee of around £79 million from Eintracht Frankfurt, Ekitike is gradually proving his worth. This season, he has scored 15 goals and provided 6 assists in 38 matches across all competitions.

With his impressive form in the Premier League, Ekitike is steadily affirming his status and is expected to play a key role in the French national team squad heading towards the FIFA World Cup 2026.