Ibrahima Konate ruthlessly disparaged Liverpool before deciding to sign for Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, where he will represent France at the 2026 World Cup.
Ibrahima Konate signs with Real Madrid (Image: Carmen Mandato – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool on a free transfer. The approval was announced a day after Bernardo Silva also left Manchester City, switching Premier League to the Spanish capital.
Konate, 27, has agreed a four-year contract, twice the length of Silva’s contract, but two years short of the six-year contract Marc Cucurella will sign after the World Cup. Madrid are also set to announce the signing of Denzel Dumfries as they continue to overhaul their defense.
Dani Carvajal and David Alaba will leave the club when their contracts end this month. Dumfries and Konate will effectively replace them.
Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed earlier this month that the defender will continue to play for Madrid next season if he is re-elected. He described Konate to Spanish newspaper AS as “one of the top defenders in the world”.
The announcement comes just days after Liverpool confirmed the player would leave the club this summer. The Reds said: “Konate departs with a feeling of gratitude for his contribution. Everyone at the club wishes him the best of luck for the future.”
Konate also published an open letter to Liverpool on Instagram. “Five years ago I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today I leave here with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Ibrahima Konate leaves Liverpool after five years (Image: Paul Currie/Shutterstock)
“It is an honor to represent this club. We have shared great moments together… the highs and the lows, the trophies, the challenges, lifelong friendships and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, but nothing is worse than losing my brother Diogo (Jota).
“Losing my father this year was one of the most difficult times in my life, but no matter the challenges, my commitment to this club has never changed. During the most difficult times, I gave everything I had for this badge.”
“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes for helping me grow every day. And to my supporters…thank you for your love, energy and incredible support.”
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“Anfield is a really special place and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted. I’m so disappointed that I didn’t have the chance to say goodbye to you for the last game. At that moment, I never thought it would be the last time I would wear this shirt in front of you.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and I will take Liverpool with me wherever I go.”
“This is not an easy goodbye, but it is time for a new challenge and a new chapter. See you soon, Inshallah.”
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