Hugo Ekitike, the vibrant 23-year-old forward who has made waves at Liverpool, scoring three goals in as many matches, has found himself on the outside looking in when it comes to Didier Deschamps' latest France squad. This unexpected oversight has sparked speculation about a potential shift in Ekitike's international allegiance.

After moving from Eintracht Frankfurt to Liverpool amidst fierce competition from clubs like Manchester United and Newcastle United, Ekitike is poised to become a key player for the reigning Premier League champions. His impressive performance includes goals against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield and in consecutive league games, solidifying his status as a formidable attacker.

France's Talent Overload Leaves Ekitike Benched

With an abundance of striking talent in the French national team, including household names like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, Ekitike's exclusion from the squad for upcoming matches against Ukraine and Ireland feels particularly stinging. Reports suggest that Deschamps believes Ekitike is simply "too soon" for the senior team, despite the forward’s remarkable 34 goal contributions last season.

However, Ekitike's eagerness to wear the national jersey could push him toward exploring opportunities elsewhere. The striker is eligible to represent Cameroon through his father, creating a tantalizing possibility for a change in his international career.

A Chance for Cameroon?

Cameroon, a country known for its spirited football legacy, would welcome Ekitike with open arms. The Indomitable Lions' best World Cup performance came in 1990 when they reached the quarter-finals, and they are currently competing in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

However, this intriguing prospect presents a dilemma for Liverpool and their head coach, Arne Slot, especially considering that Ekitike's participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations could mean he will miss critical club matches alongside Mohamed Salah.

Ekitike's International Journey: Stats and Future Potential

In his international career, Ekitike has played for France's Under-20 side six times without finding the net, but he has already demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess at the Under-21 level, netting five times in just five appearances.

With his current trajectory, there's a strong chance France may soon reconsider his inclusion. Yet, with a rich tapestry of competition and the allure of a potential role with Cameroon, Ekitike stands at a crossroads, facing a significant decision about his international future.