Liverpool fans got an unexpected off-pitch story this week after French striker Hugo Ekitike appeared in a video showing him behind the wheel of his £200,000 Mercedes G Wagon while using his phone.
The 23-year-old, who joined the Premier League club this summer, filmed himself driving down a single carriageway and posted the clip on Snapchat, turning the spotlight onto his behaviour off the pitch.
The Snapchat Clip That Sparked Concern
In the video, Ekitike shows off the car’s striking orange and black dashboard while following another vehicle.
He then flips the camera toward his face twice, seemingly capturing his reactions as he drives.
Posting such footage online has raised eyebrows, as it is illegal in the UK to hold or use a mobile phone while driving — a law that applies even at traffic lights or in heavy traffic.
Offenders risk six points on their licence and a £200 fine.
Liverpool and Police Contacted
The Daily Mail has reached out to both Liverpool FC and Merseyside Police for comment regarding the clip.
Police confirmed they have been made aware of a video believed to show a footballer using a mobile phone while driving, and that the matter has been passed to the relevant department for further attention.
Ekitike’s Promising Start at Liverpool
Despite this off-field controversy, Ekitike has made a strong start to life at Anfield.
The striker, who moved from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £79million deal, has already scored two goals in his first two Premier League appearances.
Speaking about his new teammates, he said: “I enjoy playing with them. Outside of the pitch, they are good guys.
I have things I can do better, and I’m going to enjoy playing with them for the season.”
A Familiar Liverpool Tale
Ekitike’s video echoes a similar incident from 2018 when teammate Mohamed Salah was reported to police for using his phone while driving.
Footage showed Salah holding his phone in traffic after a win against West Ham.
Liverpool later confirmed they had informed Merseyside Police following discussions with the player.
At the time, the club said it would handle any follow-up internally, emphasizing that no further comment would be made.
Safety First on and off the Pitch
While Ekitike’s performances have impressed fans, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety.
Authorities continue to crack down on drivers using phones, highlighting that no one — not even Premier League stars — is exempt from the rules.
