Ibrahima Konaté has opened up about the pivotal moments in his career, detailing how Jürgen Klopp’s heartfelt approach played a major role in his decision to join Liverpool. In an exclusive interview set to appear in the upcoming issue of So Foot, the central defender and recent captain of the French national team reflects on his journey from a challenging childhood to playing for one of Europe’s top clubs.
The turning point came in 2021, when Konaté was still with RB Leipzig. He recounts a conversation with Klopp that left a lasting impression.
“He was trying to convince me to come,” Konaté said. “He wanted to explain that Liverpool is a very family-oriented club, and that the moment I arrived, my life would change.”
However, Konaté, known for his grounded and thoughtful nature, wasn’t easily swayed. In a bid to gauge Klopp’s sincerity, he posed a simple question: “If I were your son, what would you advise me to do?”
Without hesitation, Klopp’s response was clear. “I would tell you to sign straight for Liverpool.” It wasn’t just the words that struck Konaté, but the passion with which they were spoken.
“He said that with such passion,” Konaté recalled. This moment was pivotal in solidifying his decision to make the move to Merseyside.
Klopp’s approach to Konaté’s development at Liverpool further cemented their bond. The German manager’s blend of care and genius became apparent from the start.
Konaté recalls his first game under Klopp, a “small match” against Crystal Palace, where the manager carefully eased him into the squad.
It wasn’t long before Klopp took a more bold step, catching Konaté off guard.
One day, Klopp approached him in a corridor and asked, “Are you okay? Well, we’re playing against Manchester United, and if everything goes well, you start.”
Konaté was taken aback, thinking, “But he’s crazy!” However, Klopp’s belief in him paid off when Konaté started in the unforgettable 5-0 victory at Old Trafford against a Manchester United team that featured Cristiano Ronaldo.
This match, which remains a standout in Konaté’s career, marked the beginning of a stellar run for the defender, who soon became integral to Liverpool’s defense.
The move from Leipzig to Liverpool was not just a professional decision for Konaté, but a personal one shaped by the trust and support he felt from Klopp and the club’s family atmosphere.
Un numéro, deux couvertures au choix. Tu as jusqu’à jeudi pour te décider avant d’aller chez ton marchand de journaux. ⏰ pic.twitter.com/krFbmFspyR
— SO FOOT (@sofoot) December 2, 2024
