Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has revealed the playful but motivating message he gave new signing Hugo Ekitike during a training session on Merseyside.
The two French internationals, now teammates under Arne Slot, shared a laugh that also came with a serious push toward professional growth.
Ekitike, who joined Liverpool in the summer for £79million, has already made a strong impression in the Premier League.
In just 16 appearances across competitions, the 23-year-old striker has scored six goals and added an assist, though he has sometimes had to play second fiddle to summer signing Alexander Isak.
Gym Motivation That Packed a Punch
Konate, a seasoned international with 25 caps for France, admitted he spotted the perfect moment to give Ekitike a nudge.
The incident happened after a grueling training session.
“Once, I gave him a bit of a hard time, but it was funny,” Konate told Canal+.
“We had to go to the gym after training, and he was tired. I said, ‘Come on, let’s go to the gym now.’
He replied, ‘I’m knocked out, I’m dead.’”
Konate paused, then delivered the gentle ultimatum with a grin: “Do you want to go to the French national team or not?” According to Konate, that was all it took — a minute later, Ekitike was hitting the gym with renewed energy.
Ekitike’s Progress Under the Spotlight
Since that moment, Ekitike has continued to impress, earning his first call-up to the French national team in August.
Though he hasn’t scored in his four appearances yet, the young striker is learning fast under the watchful eyes of his mentors.
Konate praised Ekitike’s dedication: “Anecdote aside, he quickly understood how it works.
He is very diligent and will progress, I have no doubt about that.”
Learning from France’s Captain Mbappe
Part of Ekitike’s growth comes from his bond with Kylian Mbappe.
Speaking to Daily Mail Sport, Ekitike reflected on how the two connected while he was a teenager at PSG, struggling to break into the first team.
“Mbappe saw me in a tough spot at PSG and has always been supportive,” Ekitike said.
“Now things are working out, and we see each other in the national team and play together.
He’s been like a big brother to me.”
Their paths will soon cross on the biggest stage, with Liverpool set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League — a high-stakes reunion for the two French stars.
Mentorship on and off the Pitch
With Konate’s cheeky encouragement in the gym and Mbappe’s guidance at the national team level, Ekitike is surrounded by players who push him to achieve his potential.
As he continues to adapt to the Premier League and international football, these influences are already shaping him into a more complete and confident forward.
“I’m learning every day,” Ekitike said. “Having mentors like Konate and Mbappe makes a huge difference.
It’s not just about playing, it’s about understanding what it takes to be at the top.”