It has been confirmed that Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate will miss 5-6 weeks of action due to a knee injury.
The setback occurred during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League earlier this week, where Konate collided with Endrick in the closing stages of the game.
Konate, who has been instrumental for the Reds so far this season, was seen clutching his knee and required assistance to leave the pitch.
The initial concerns have now been confirmed, with scans revealing an issue severe enough to sideline the Frenchman for most of the festive period.
Konate has commented on the injury, saying, “So frustrating to pick up this injury. Now we start the recovery process but one thing I promise is I will come back and be the best I can be once again.”
🚨 Ibrahima Konaté will MISS Man City game and several others with new injury.
“So frustrating to pick up this injury. Now we start the recovery process but one thing I promise is I will come back and be the best I can be once again”, says Ibou. pic.twitter.com/sCZQ0KQ4uC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 29, 2024
Konate Injury A Blow to Liverpool’s Busy December Schedule
Konaté’s absence is a major blow for Liverpool, who are entering a hectic stretch of fixtures.
The festive period comes with an intense schedule in the Premier League, and Liverpool’s upcoming games include key clashes against Manchester City, Newcastle, Everton, and Tottenham.
Without Konate, manager Arne Slot will need to lean on alternative options at centre back, such as Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah, to partner with Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool's next 4 Premier League games 🤔 pic.twitter.com/RjdLZuNNA5
— – (@AnfieldRd96) November 29, 2024
Expected Return in January
Konate is not expected to return to action until early January, meaning he will miss fixtures across domestic and European competitions.
The timing of his recovery will be critical for Liverpool’s aspirations in both the Premier League title race and the latter stages of the Champions League.
The French defender has been a crucial figure for Liverpool since his arrival, with his physical presence, composure on the ball, and ability to read the game making him a key asset for Slot.
