Konate Responds to Carragher Criticism with Assured France Display
Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate has found himself at the centre of scrutiny in recent weeks, with questions over his future and his form drawing attention both in England and abroad. Yet, just as doubts threatened to linger, the centre-back delivered a performance in France colours that may steady the conversation.
Konate’s Challenging Start to the Season
The season began with uncertainty surrounding Konate’s contract, which runs down in less than a year. That cloud has hovered over his early displays for Liverpool, where his rhythm has faltered and criticism followed. Jamie Carragher, never one to shy away from blunt assessments, suggested that Konate “is not good enough to lead the back line if and when Virgil van Dijk is absent.”
Against Arsenal, however, there were signs of recovery. Konate kept Viktor Gyökeres quiet and looked closer to the commanding figure who helped Liverpool lift the Premier League title last season.
Praise from France after Ukraine Win
International duty provided a fresh stage. France’s 2-0 victory over Ukraine saw Konate start alongside Dayot Upamecano, filling the gap left by William Saliba’s injury. French media outlets were quick to highlight his authority.
Foot Mercato described him as “very good in the air” and noted a decisive goal-line clearance, rating him a solid seven out of ten. RMC Sport went slightly lower with a six but still praised his “valuable bursts” and “very valuable headed save.” Reports called him “very serious” and “solid” – words Liverpool supporters will be relieved to hear.
Carragher’s Challenge and Konate’s Answer
Konate’s aerial duels had been a sticking point in recent criticism, but against Artem Dovbyk he looked far harder to beat. Carragher’s sharp observations may have struck a chord, and this outing suggested that the Frenchman can respond with steel rather than doubt.
The performance does not erase his uneven start, but it hints at resilience. For a player fighting both contract uncertainty and the weight of expectation, such nights matter.
