Konaté’s words spark Ekitiké’s France call-up breakthrough

Motivation behind Liverpool’s new striker

It is easy to forget that footballers, even the most gifted, sometimes need a nudge. At Liverpool, that reminder came from Ibrahima Konaté, whose sharp words to Hugo Ekitiké might have been the spark behind the forward’s recent rise, according to GFNF.

Ekitiké joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer for around €95 million and has since scored six goals in 16 appearances. For a 22-year-old finding his feet in a demanding system, that return is promising. Yet, it seems his teammate’s influence went beyond the pitch.

Speaking to Canal Plus, Konaté recalled the moment he playfully challenged the striker’s work ethic. “One time, I told him off a bit, but it was funny,” he said. “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.”

Key moment in Ekitiké’s progress

Konaté continued, revealing how he used a touch of humour to push his teammate. “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 was a small exchange, but one that speaks volumes about the mentality at Liverpool’s training ground under Arne Slot. Competition, accountability and camaraderie have shaped the culture, and Konaté’s words may have been the timely push that Ekitiké needed.

Now, both players find themselves in Didier Deschamps’ France squad, a reflection of their growing influence. France can secure qualification for next summer’s FIFA World Cup with victory over Ukraine on Thursday night.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will love this story because it captures the spirit of what makes a successful dressing room. Konaté’s words to Ekitiké were more than banter; they showed leadership and belief. Supporters have seen the defender grow into a vocal figure both on and off the pitch, and this episode reinforces his role as a standard-setter.

For Ekitiké, it highlights a mentality shift. There were doubts when he arrived from Germany about whether he could handle the physical demands of the Premier League. Now, stories like this suggest he’s adapting fast. The striker’s response to Konaté’s challenge shows hunger and humility, two traits fans value deeply at Anfield.

There’s also a wider message here about what Liverpool have built. This squad pushes itself. When senior players demand more from teammates, it creates accountability and unity. Ekitiké’s early success, combined with his international call-up, is proof that culture matters as much as talent.

Supporters will be hoping that this competitive edge continues to drive improvement. If Ekitiké keeps working like this, Liverpool might have found not just a future star but a striker shaped perfectly by Anfield’s demanding standards.