Liverpool’s flawless start to the season has been one of the biggest stories of the Premier League so far, and new signing Hugo Ekitike is already playing his part. The French striker, who joined from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, has impressed with his sharp adaptation to English football. Yet, according to the forward himself, much of his success off the pitch comes down to the support of £36m defender Ibrahima Konaté.
Speaking to Stan Sports, Ekitike explained how Konaté has been instrumental since his arrival on Merseyside. “The most important person when I came here was Ibou, to be honest. He’s been here for four years, he knows everything here, he knows the people. He helped me a lot with everything off the pitch. On the pitch other players helped me more, but yeah, Ibou has been really important for me here.”
For a player who has struggled with big moves before, the presence of a senior compatriot has been a major boost. At PSG, Ekitike never settled, managing just 4 goals and 4 assists in 33 appearances. Now at Liverpool, he looks determined to prove he belongs at the very top level.
Konaté’s leadership beyond defence
Konaté may be known for his defensive dominance alongside Virgil van Dijk, but his leadership qualities are proving just as valuable in Liverpool’s dressing room. Having joined the Reds in 2021 from RB Leipzig, the French centre-back has grown into a respected figure at Anfield.
Ekitike admitted that while others such as Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez have helped him on the pitch with attacking movements, it is Konaté’s guidance off it that has made the difference. The bond between the two Frenchmen is another example of the tight-knit culture Jürgen Klopp has fostered in recent years.
“I have good players around me, they make it easy… On the pitch other players helped me more, but yeah, Ibou has been really important for me here.” — Hugo Ekitike, Stan Sports
Hugo Ekitike’s PSG record vs Liverpool start
| Stat | PSG (2022–24) | Liverpool (2025/26) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 33 | — |
| Goals | 4 | — |
| Assists | 4 | — |
source: PSG & Liverpool match data – 19 September 2025
The contrast is stark. At PSG, Ekitike struggled to settle under the weight of expectation. At Liverpool, he has looked sharper and more confident, suggesting he may finally be ready to establish himself as a reliable striker.
Analyst verdict: why Ekitike could thrive at Liverpool
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Ekitike’s successful start shows the importance of environment:
“Liverpool have managed Ekitike’s integration perfectly. Unlike at PSG, where he was under immediate pressure, Klopp has built a support system around him. Konaté’s role is crucial — it gives Ekitike a sense of belonging. On the pitch, Liverpool’s style plays to his strengths: mobility, pressing, and link-up play. If he keeps building confidence, he has the tools to become a long-term star at Anfield.”
William also noted the bigger picture: “Liverpool may have finally found the young striker they’ve been searching for to eventually succeed Darwin Núñez and add depth to the attack. With Salah entering his 30s, the timing of Ekitike’s arrival could be ideal.”
Key insights
- Hugo Ekitike says Ibrahima Konaté has been vital in helping him settle at Liverpool.
- Konaté’s £36m move in 2021 has paid off on and off the pitch, with his leadership praised.
- Ekitike struggled at PSG (4 goals in 33 games) but has made a brighter start at Anfield.
- Klopp’s support structure is helping the 23-year-old striker thrive.
- Liverpool may have a future superstar in their attack if his progress continues.
What’s next for Ekitike and Liverpool?
Liverpool’s next run of fixtures will test their depth as they juggle domestic and European commitments. Ekitike will likely be rotated but could play a pivotal role as an impact substitute, gradually earning more starts.
With Konaté continuing to mentor him, and Klopp easing him into the system, the French forward may become one of the most significant signings of Liverpool’s season. His story could mirror that of other players who struggled at one club only to flourish in the right environment.
👉 Could Hugo Ekitike prove to be Liverpool’s next big attacking superstar?
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