Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp sends Ibrahima Konate message to Didier Deschamps
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made it clear that he remains unhappy with how France boss Didier Deschamps managed Ibrahima Konate during the recent international break. This frustration stems from the usage of the defender, which had consequences for Liverpool’s Europa League clash against Toulouse as Ibou was not part of the squad for that game.
Konate, who has been a key figure for Liverpool, started in the Merseyside derby against Everton last weekend. However, he saw himself substituted in the second half of that match. Klopp decided to substitute him for Joel Matip.
Klopp made what was on his mind absolutely clear when questioned about Konate and his absence from the squad for the Europa League match against Toulouse. The Liverpool manager feels that Deschamps could have been smarter with his use of the former RB Leipzig man on the international break. However, Konate’s constant inclusion is also understandable. That is because he is among the best defenders Deschamps has at his disposal.
Here is what Klopp had to say to RMC Sport via Mirror:
“I love absolutely everything about Ibou, but the problem is that Ibou has injury problems from time to time, and Monsieur Deschamps played him 90 and 87 minutes in the two games so we’ve used this time now to give him a little rest. He could have played tonight of course but he has to play on Sunday again.”
“I told Ibou, tell Monsieur Deschamps, that’s how you rest a player. Not just three minutes. But we are more than happy with Ibou. [He’s a] fantastic boy and a super player and France can be really happy to have him.”
Klopp‘s remarks reveal his concern for Konate‘s well-being and the need for more considerate management of the player’s fitness. The decision to give him a break during the Europa League match was a strategic move to ensure his readiness for upcoming league fixtures. Ibou played out the entirety of France’s clash against the Netherlands and came off only in the 87th minute against Scotland, as Klopp mentioned.
Ibou for the Reds
Liverpool fans can take solace in the fact that their manager is actively involved in safeguarding the welfare of their players, even when it involves addressing concerns about international commitments.
Konate’s role as a key part of Liverpool’s defensive line makes it crucial to manage his fitness effectively, ensuring he remains a reliable and robust asset to the team.
With Liverpool gearing up for their next league match on Sunday against Nottingham Forest, Klopp’s emphasis on maintaining Konate’s fitness and form is a reflection of the meticulous approach that has made Liverpool a formidable force in English and European football.
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In conclusion, this incident sheds light on the challenges faced by international coaches, who must strike a balance between utilising key players effectively and ensuring their physical well-being. Klopp’s perspective serves as a reminder of the importance of player management and open communication between club and national team managers.
