Hugo Ekitike Faces Two-Week Wage Deduction for Indiscipline in Southampton Match
Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike is set to face a significant disciplinary action following his red card in the team’s 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup on September 23, 2025. According to reports from the Daily Mail and other sources, Ekitike is expected to be fined two weeks’ wages, a penalty that could amount to approximately £400,000 based on his reported £200,000-per-week contract with the Premier League club. However, Sport Bible, citing salary data from Capology, suggests the fine could be closer to £500,000, highlighting the severity of the punishment for the 23-year-old forward.
The incident occurred during Liverpool’s hard-fought win at St Mary’s Stadium, where Ekitike scored a crucial goal in the 85th minute to help secure the victory. However, his celebration and subsequent actions led to his dismissal from the match. Ekitike received his first yellow card for dissent after punching the ball away in frustration, an act deemed disrespectful by the referee. Moments later, during his goal celebration, he removed his shirt, earning a second yellow card and an automatic red card. This resulted in a one-match suspension, ruling him out of Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
The two-week wage deduction, while not officially confirmed by Liverpool, has sparked widespread discussion among fans and pundits. On platforms like X, opinions are divided. Some supporters argue the fine is overly harsh, pointing out that Ekitike’s actions, while impulsive, were driven by passion and did not cause harm. Others believe the punishment is justified, emphasizing that professional players must maintain discipline, especially given the avoidable nature of both yellow cards. One user on X commented, “£400k for a shirt removal and dissent? That’s steep, but he needs to learn.” Another countered, “Ekitike cost us a player for the next match. The fine sends a message.”
Ekitike, who joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2025, has since issued a public apology via Instagram. In his statement, the young striker expressed regret, saying, “I let my emotions get the better of me, and I’m sorry to my teammates, the staff, and the fans. I’ll learn from this and come back stronger.” His apology has been well-received by some fans, who appreciate his accountability, though it remains to be seen how this incident will impact his standing within the squad.
The financial impact of the fine is significant, particularly for a player early in his Liverpool career. If the Daily Mail’s estimate of £400,000 is accurate, it represents a substantial portion of Ekitike’s earnings, underscoring the club’s strict stance on player conduct. The higher estimate of £500,000 reported by Sport Bible would make the fine one of the largest imposed on a player for such infractions in recent memory. For context, removing a shirt during a goal celebration is a common booking offense under FIFA and Premier League rules, but dissent, particularly in the form of aggressive actions like punching the ball, is treated more seriously by officials.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has not publicly commented on the fine, but sources close to the club suggest that the punishment aligns with the team’s emphasis on discipline and professionalism. Ekitike’s red card was particularly frustrating as it left Liverpool with 10 men for the final minutes of the Southampton match, though they managed to hold on for the win. The suspension for the Crystal Palace game further complicates matters, as Liverpool navigate a busy schedule across multiple competitions.
This incident adds to the growing pains for Ekitike, who is still adapting to the intensity and expectations of the Premier League after his move from Ligue 1. Despite showing promise with his goal-scoring ability, including his strike against Southampton, this disciplinary lapse has put him under scrutiny. Liverpool fans will hope this serves as a learning experience for the talented forward, who has the potential to become a key figure in the squad.
As the debate over the fairness of the fine continues, Ekitike’s focus will likely shift to regaining his form and proving his commitment on the pitch. With Liverpool competing in the Premier League, Carabao Cup, and potentially other competitions, the young striker will have opportunities to redeem himself. For now, though, the financial sting of a two-week wage deduction serves as a stark reminder of the high standards expected at Anfield.
