\n<\/p>\n
Ekitike is the latest success story of Frankfurt’s recruitment. <\/p>\n
He was not unknown when he joined Frankfurt on loan in early 2024 but had fallen into a bit of a hole.<\/p>\n
He had attracted the interest of other clubs, including Newcastle, when he was coming through at Reims.<\/p>\n
Ekitike opted to join Paris St-Germain but could not quite break through amid the embarrassment of riches in the attacking department.<\/p>\n
Frankfurt picked him up and signed him on a permanent deal a year ago.<\/p>\n
He served as a lone striker and in a partnership under manager Dino Toppmoller.<\/p>\n
During the first half of last season, Ekitike and Omar Marmoush formed a fearsome pairing. But this was broken up when Manchester City signed Marmoush for \u00a363m in January.<\/p>\n
Frankfurt did not acquire a replacement for Marmoush and instead changed the tactical set-up. During the second half of the campaign, Ekitike played up front, with two attacking midfielders behind him.<\/p>\n
Ekitike is versatile and not a striker who only feels at home inside the box. When he played alongside Marmoush, both swapped positions constantly.<\/p>\n
Ekitike might not be the most dynamic player, but he can get by defenders with smart moves.<\/p>\n
His tactical understanding is one of his great strengths, not just in possession but also when applying a high or midfield press.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n