Hugo Ekitike has discussed the ‘secret’ Instagram account that he uses to post non-football related content, saying it makes him feel more relatable.
The Frenchman has been Liverpool’s signing of the summer, scoring 10 goals in 23 appearances since his potential £79 million move from Eintracht Frankfurt.
Ekitike’s brilliance as a footballer isn’t the only thing that has endeared him to Reds supporters, however, with his personality also shining through.
The 23-year-old’s secondary second Instagram account is popular among fans online, allowing the striker to showcase his off-field activity.
Speaking to All Red Video, Ekitike talked about why he has the account and how it makes him feel more down-to-earth away from his life as a world-famous sportsman.
“The first time I’ve seen that, it [was from] an NBA player who was doing that,” Ekitike said.
“I found that kind of cool. I think I could do even more good.
“For me it’s personal, so you can’t really judge what I do. I feel like you can’t really express yourself.
“Like every time I go on my account, I know I’m going to post football stuff, can’t really post if you’re happy or you’re not.
“I like the second one because it’s more like mood. I can show how I feel, what makes me love.
“That’s what people need because they only see proper posts of footballers. I’m human. It’s just to show I’m just like you. I think more people should do that.
“You know what, I think I take more time to choose the song than the pictures. I think the music makes me take time to post.”
While Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz arrived as Liverpool’s shiniest new summer signings, it is Ekitike who has become the new fans’ favourite.
There is a freedom that he plays with that is so easy to warm to, and the fact that he is showing off his character away from the pitch is only adding to his popularity.
A new attacking hero has emerged, both in terms of talent and charisma, and the sky is the limit for him at Liverpool.