Image Credits: Imago Images
Hugo Ekitike arrived at Liverpool in the summer of 2025 with considerable expectations, having been signed from Eintracht Frankfurt for an initial £69 million, potentially rising to £79 million with add-ons.
The French striker made an electric start to life on Merseyside, scoring three goals in his opening three competitive appearances for the Reds.
Ekitike’s output has dropped off somewhat since that red card against Southampton, but he remains an integral part of Liverpool’s attacking setup.
On the international front, Ekitike’s journey to the France senior squad has been equally eventful.
The striker was initially overlooked when Didier Deschamps announced his squad for the September World Cup qualifiers, despite his blistering start at Liverpool.
However, fortune smiled upon him when Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki suffered a thigh injury that would sideline him for two months.
Deschamps turned to Ekitike as a replacement, handing him his first senior call-up for matches against Ukraine and Iceland.
Though it was injury-related initially, subsequent selections suggest Ekitike is now firmly in France’s plans for the 2026 World Cup, even being handed the coveted number nine shirt for the October international break.
And now Ibrahima Konate, speaking to Canal+ (via GFFN) has now revealed how he pushed his compatriot to put in the extra mile:
“One time, I told him off a bit, but it was funny,” Konate began.
“We were supposed to go to the gym after training. He was tired because we put a lot of intensity into sessions; it is really hard.”
“I go and see him to tell him to come to the gym, and he tells me, ‘But I’m shattered’. We don’t have to go to the gym, but it is better.”
“So, I looked at him and said, ‘Do you want a call-up to the France national team or what?’ Then I leave. One minute later, he is in the gym.”
It’s yet another anecdote that showcases how important Ibrahima Konate is both on and off the pitch.
That new contract can come anytime, Liverpool.
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