Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate provides insights on his teammates’ mindset towards Jurgen Klopp departure
Ibrahima Konate explained that the Liverpool squad is “apprehensive” about the new manager who will succeed Jurgen Klopp after this season. In January, Klopp announced that he was stepping back from the managerial role due to the feeling of burnout.
Konate has developed into the first-choice centre-back pairing alongside Virgil van Dijk under Klopp, making drastic development since joining Liverpool. The Reds signed the Frenchman from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021 after he showed his quality in Germany.
The 24-year-old has the quality and mentality to establish himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League. However, the nagging injuries are the biggest obstruction to fulfilling his potential, forcing Klopp to manage Konate’s game time.
Liverpool currently have Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez as the centre-back options alongside Konate and Van Dijk. The Liverpool boss has used good squad rotation to keep the Frenchman available for most of the season.
Konate suffered a thigh problem that sidelined him in recent games but he is a part of the French squad. The 24-year-old has made 32 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing with an assist for the Reds.
Speaking to France TV Info (h/t Liverpool Echo), Konate voiced his teammates’ reaction to the impending managerial changes at Liverpool. He said:
“Liverpool is Liverpool. Klopp was the one who came looking for me and got me to the level I’m at today. It will always be a legendary, exceptional club. Everyone is apprehensive, and every player is aware of that. Who will the new manager be? Will things go well, both collectively and individually?”
The transition of Liverpool under Klopp: Insights on Konate’s importance
Klopp has built a culture which balances the daunting ambition with developing players at both personal and professional levels. The German holds a strong bond with the squad and they repay the faith of their manager with confidence.
Liverpool’s squad is fluid and diverse while the academy has been highly influential in this season’s success so far. Klopp’s successor would have their tactical requirement that could make few changes in the squad personals.
More Liverpool news
- Fabrizio Romano rubbishes rumours of Liverpool star’s summer exit
- Liverpool involved in massive transfer tussle for breakout Bundesliga star
- Journo reveals secret role Liverpool’s new appointment played in signing Salah and Alisson
Given the quality and mentality of the players, which aligns with Liverpool’s philosophy, the changes won’t be drastic. As things stand, Konate is one of the top players at the club and a good successor would recognize his importance.
