Official: Liverpool announce Ibrahima Konate exit

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Accredited sports journalist covering football since 2020

Liverpool have officially announced that Ibrahima Konate will leave the club as a free agent when his contract expires at the end of June.

The France international had been expected to agree fresh terms with the Anfield outfit, after Real Madrid withdrew from contention to sign him on a Bosman deal, however a resolution couldn’t be reached and it emerged earlier this week that a departure was expected.

In an official statement posted on the Liverpool website on Sunday afternoon, the club confirmed his imminent exit. “Liverpool FC can confirm Ibrahima Konate is set to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer,” the statement read.

“The centre-back will depart Anfield at the end of June, bringing his five-year spell with the Reds to a conclusion. Signed from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021, Konate made a total of 183 appearances and scored seven goals.

“The France international will leave with a Premier League winner’s medal for his role in Liverpool’s 2024-25 title triumph, as well as successes in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup (twice) and FA Community Shield.

“Konate will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for the contribution he made and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future.”

Andrew Robertson and Mohamed Salah will also leave the Reds upon the expiration of their contracts this summer, while the club confirmed the departure of head coach Arne Slot on Saturday. Andoni Iraola, who has left Bournemouth, is the overwhelming favourite to become the new Liverpool manager and he is expected to be appointed shortly.

Ibrahima Konate leaves Liverpool

Following confirmation of his Liverpool exit, Konate posted on Instagram: “Dear Liverpool, five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“Representing this club has been an honour. We’ve shared incredible moments together… highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo.

“Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.

“To my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.

“And to the supporters… thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted.

“I am deeply saddened that I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn’t know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go.

“This isn’t an easy goodbye, but it’s time for a new challenge and a new chapter. See you again soon, inshallah. YNWA.”