Liverpool manager Arne Slot has hit out at striker Hugo Ekitike after the Frenchman was sent off for what the Dutch coach described as a “senseless” act during their 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday night.
Liverpool, who fielded a mix of regular starters and fringe players, secured passage into the next round thanks to goals from Alexander Isak and Ekitike. Southampton, currently in the Championship, provided stiff resistance but were undone by the Premier League leaders’ quality in front of goal.
However, what should have been a straightforward evening ended in frustration for Slot when Ekitike picked up a needless red card. The 22-year-old forward received his second yellow card after taking off his shirt while celebrating his goal, leaving Liverpool to finish the game with ten men.
Speaking after the match, Slot made his displeasure clear.
“I don’t understand it at all,” he told ITV. “If you score from an assist like Federico Chiesa gave tonight, the first thing you should do is point to him because he created the chance. But instead, Hugo chose to celebrate by pulling his shirt off. That’s what earned him a second yellow card and an early exit. It was senseless.”
Slot went further, highlighting that such moments of indiscipline could have serious consequences in competitive matches.
“It’s not just about this game,” he explained. “Taking your shirt off is always a stupid way to get a yellow card. The rules are very clear on that. If you already have a booking, you’re leaving the referee no choice. From then on, every foul or mistake can put the team at risk. In this case, he got sent off, and we had to manage the final stages with a man less.”
While Liverpool still held on for victory at St. Mary’s, Slot emphasized that discipline will be vital if the team is to compete across all fronts this season.
“We want to challenge for every trophy,” he said. “That means every detail matters — every pass, every duel, and yes, even every celebration. These are lessons players must learn quickly. We can’t afford to put ourselves in trouble for something avoidable.”
Despite his frustration, Slot praised the overall performance of his squad, particularly Isak and Chiesa, who combined well in attack. He admitted Ekitike’s goal showed his quality but insisted the manner of his dismissal overshadowed the contribution.
“It was a great finish from Hugo, no doubt,” Slot said. “But the assist deserved recognition, and instead of highlighting that, we’re now talking about his red card. That’s the unfortunate part.”
Liverpool will now prepare for their next Premier League outing, but Slot made it clear that discipline and decision-making will be stressed heavily in training as the Reds continue their push on multiple fronts.
Should we send you latest update about your favourite sports and team?
Enter you email in the box below and hit the subscribe button to join our teaming 876+ sports community.
