Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has shared how a playful but firm challenge to Hugo Ekitike turned into real motivation — and helped the young forward make his dream debut for France.
Konate’s motivational “gym talk”. Leadership doesn’t always come from wearing the captain’s armband — and Konate proved that perfectly.
Speaking to Canal Plus, the Reds’ center-back explained how a small locker-room moment became a big push for his compatriot.
“One time I told him off a bit, but it was funny,” Konate 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 and tell him, ‘Come on, we’re going to the gym’. He said, ‘I’m shattered, I’m tired’.
“I look at him and say, ‘Do you want to go to the France team or not?’ Then I leave. One minute later, he was already in the dining room ready to go to the gym.”
It might sound like banter between friends, but the message was loud and clear — hard work pays off.
The moment that changed everything
That spark from Konate apparently worked. A few months later, Ekitike received his first senior call-up from Didier Deschamps. Since then, he has made four appearances for Les Bleus and seems set for a bright international future.
Konate later added: “The anecdote is a bit funny but afterwards, he quickly understood how it happened. In terms of work, he’s someone who is very diligent and who will progress, I have no doubt about that.”
It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes story that shows how team spirit and accountability play a key role in a player’s growth — and Konate clearly knows how to lead by example.
Ibrahima Konate & Hugo Ekitike: A new French connection at Liverpool
Ekitike’s form for Liverpool has mirrored his rise with France. The £69 million summer signing has been one of Arne Slot’s most dangerous forwards, with six goals already this season.
Despite a few ups and downs — including a suspension against Southampton — his impact has been undeniable.
France now sit comfortably at the top of Group D in World Cup qualifying. With fixtures against Ukraine and Azerbaijan coming up, Ekitike could get more minutes if Les Bleus secure qualification early.
And with Konate by his side, there’s no shortage of motivation in the French corner of Liverpool’s dressing room.
Hugo Ekitike for France
| Competition | Games | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualification | 4 | 0 | 1 | 90* |
From gym jokes to a France jersey — Konate’s “tough love” approach clearly worked wonders. Sometimes, all it takes is one question: “Do you want to go to the France team or not?”