Konaté returns to France, a fresh rebirth after Liverpool
After a delicate season at Liverpool, marked by a painful personal episode, Ibrahima Konaté finds the Bleus in a completely different context. Performing since the start of the season with Real Madrid, the central defender intends to use this gathering to regain a key place in Zinedine Zidane's hierarchy.
A highly anticipated return
This return is especially awaited. Ibrahima Konaté returns to the French national team with a smile and regained confidence. Far from the turbulence of his last season at Liverpool, he arrives this time after a convincing start to the campaign wearing Real Madrid's colours.
Promising beginnings in Madrid
The past few months have not been easy for “Ibou”. Sportingly, he initially delivered half‑hearted performances in a Liverpool side in deep trouble. Personally, the loss of his father profoundly marked his year and inevitably weighed on his performances. Nevertheless, the defender has overcome this painful period.
His last minutes in the blue shirt date back to the World Cup, with fifty‑four minutes played against Norway and England. Since then, Konaté missed the September gathering due to a slight knee sprain. He therefore truly rejoins the tricolour group for this gathering, in a much more favourable personal and sporting context. Since the start of the season, the Frenchman has regained his best level.
At Real Madrid, he quickly established himself as an important component of the Madrid back‑line. Present in the big fixtures, notably during victories over FC Barcelona, he meets expectations and forms a convincing partnership with Dean Huijsen. This status has not gone unnoticed.
José Mourinho particularly appreciates his profile and performances. The Portuguese coach sees in him a defender capable of bringing power, impact and composure to his team.
The story of his arrival in the Spanish capital deserves to be highlighted. After lengthy negotiations, Liverpool and the defender had not reached an agreement for an extension. Real Madrid thus managed to bring Konaté in for free. This deal could quickly prove to be a clever coup.
The battle for the central spot
But now, the issue lies elsewhere. With the Bleus, Ibrahima Konaté wants to regain an important place in the hierarchy of central defenders. The competition for this position is particularly fierce.
During the latest gathering, the youngsters Leny Yoro and especially Jérémy Jacquet earned points and showed they can step up at the highest level. Meanwhile, William Saliba, usually untouchable, is injured, as is Maxence Lacroix.
The depth of the defensive sector is such that certain quality players, like Wesley Fofana, are not even on the list. In this context, Konaté has a real card to play. The defender knows he must extend with the Bleus the good performances shown at club level to regain a key place.
Beyond his sporting qualities, the tricolour staff is convinced of his leadership potential, both on and off the pitch. His teammate Dayot Upamecano also highlighted his satisfaction at having Ibrahima Konaté back with the Bleus.
In a press conference, the French defender said: “We met when we were very young in Leipzig. He is having a very good start to the season in Madrid. He has established himself there. I hope it continues like this. I am happy to be able to play for the French national team with him.”
It remains to be seen whether Zidane will start him on Thursday evening (8:45 pm) against Italy. One thing is certain: the San Siro brings back very good memories for him.
On 17 November 2024, the French team won 3‑1 against Italy in that same venue in the Nations League. That evening, Ibrahima Konaté even wore the captain's armband for the first time at the kickoff of a match with the Bleus. Two years later, the defender returns to that pitch with new ambitions.