Jose Enrique believes Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate can become ‘best in the world’
Former Liverpool ace Jose Enrique believes Ibrahima Konate has what it takes to become one of the world’s best centre-backs in the coming years.
The France international put in a dominant display in the Reds’ 1-0 win over Fulham in our previous fixture. However, since his move to the Merseyside outfit, multiple injuries have hampered the defender’s game time and development.
Taking to Twitter (h/t Daily Mail), Enrique, who spent five years playing as a full-back at the Anfield side, hailed the 23-year-old and tipped the youngster to be world-class on the condition of him staying fit.
“Konate, if he is able to stay fit, is going to be one of the best center backs in the world. What a player!”
Konate signed for Liverpool in the summer of 2021 from RB Leipzig. Since then, he has been a key player for the Anfield side but has been unable to feature a lot due to constant injury issues.
In recent weeks, the French national has started regularly for the Reds. He has showcased his talent on multiple occasions and has formed a solid partnership alongside Virgil van Dijk.
The 23-year-old has also been asked to cover a lot of space on the right-hand side of the Merseyside outfit on occasions, with Trent Alexander-Arnold playing a more hybrid role in the last few weeks.
Joel Matip is the only other established centre-back at Liverpool’s disposal. Unfortunately, the Cameroon international has not had the best of fitness records over the years either.
We also have Nat Phillips in our ranks. However, Klopp has been reluctant to use the 26-year-old in the team this season. Konate and Van Dijk have been the gaffer’s preferred pairing.
The French national has climbed up the pecking order. In the current campaign, the 23-year-old has been chosen ahead of Matip in the starting lineup when they have been fit.
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Konate has certainly caught a lot of people’s attention with some strong displays in Liverpool’s backline. However, in order to be considered the best, consistency is key. And it remains to be seen whether the centre-back will be able to fulfil his potential at the Anfield side.
