Ibrahima Konate leaves Liverpool (Image: Getty)
Ibrahima Konate has broken his silence on his departure from Liverpool after the Reds finally confirmed the Frenchman’s impending departure. The defender, who won four major titles at Anfield, including the Premier League, will leave as a free agent after negotiations over a new contract broke down. Liverpool and the player’s agent could not reach an agreement regarding his salary.
The 27-year-old will end his five-year spell on Merseyside at the end of June when his contract expires. He made 183 appearances for the club, scoring 7 goals before leaving. The news was reported earlier this week and officially announced Sunday evening. Liverpool said in a statement: “Konate departs with a deep sense of gratitude for his contribution. Everyone at the club wishes him the best of luck for the future.” The France international then released a lengthy statement admitting he was devastated not being able to say goodbye to his supporters.
Konate said: “Dear Liverpool, five years ago I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today I leave with memories that will last a lifetime. It is an honor to represent this club. We have shared great moments together… highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships and heartbreaking moments that will last forever, but nothing is worse than losing my brother Diogo.”
“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 never changed. During the most difficult times, I gave everything I had for this badge. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone who supported me behind the scenes, for helping me grow every day.”
“And to all the supporters… thank you for the love, energy and incredible support. Anfield is a truly special place and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted. I am 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. YNWA.”
Konate said just a month ago after Liverpool’s win over Everton that he was confident his contract situation had been resolved and he would stay. “About my future? To be fair, people are saying a lot of things, but we’ve been talking to the club for a long time and we’re getting close to an agreement,” he said at the time.
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Ibrahima Konate did not get the chance to say goodbye to Anfield (Image: Getty)
“I think everyone wanted it for as long as possible, but we’re moving in a good direction. Certainly, there’s a great chance to stay here next season, which is what I’ve always wanted.”
“We’re waiting for the contract to be sorted out, but once everything is sorted out, I’ll have to ask Richard (Hughes) what I said to him in September or November and he’ll say something to shut everyone up.
“When everything is resolved, before you guys talk about everything, I want you to talk to Richard and ask him what I said to him a few months ago. We’ll see when he responds. I just hope so.”
“I already see myself as a leader for this team, for the young players and to be fair to everyone. We know this is part of football life. The legends will leave at some point and then it’s our turn to lead. I’ve already started this and it’s a big responsibility.”
The news comes just over 24 hours after Liverpool sacked manager Arne Slott. Former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is considered the favorite to replace the Dutchman.
