Ibrahima Konate has had a strong start to the season with Liverpool, regaining his starting spot after coming on at half-time in the opening match against Ipswich Town.
However, his return to international duty with France last week was far more challenging.
After struggling with injury towards the end of Jurgen Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool, Konate lost his place in the squad.
He was an unused substitute during Euro 2024, where France were defeated by Spain in the semi-finals.
Last weekend, he was reinstated to the France starting XI for their Nations League match against Italy.
Unfortunately, the game ended in a 3-1 defeat for France in Paris, and Konate faced heavy criticism from the French media, who blamed him for at least two of Italy’s goals.
This criticism could potentially see Konate lose his place when France faces Belgium on Monday night.
Konate was not the only one criticized after the loss; AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan also expressed his frustration.
According to French outlet L’Equipe, Maignan delivered a two-minute tirade in the dressing room after the final whistle, condemning his teammates for their performance and acknowledging Italy’s superior desire and effort.
The likes of Kylian Mbappe and Konate were reportedly stunned into silence during the outburst, with none of the France squad daring to respond.
Despite the heated exchange, Maignan has downplayed any suggestions of dressing room unrest and has declined to reveal the specifics of his comments to his teammates.
“What is said in the locker room stays between us,” he said.
“There no need to worry.”
Ibrahima Konate also spoke after the loss to Italy, offering an honest assessment.
He admitted that while France has many great individual players, the team needs to improve their collective performance
“If I can summarise what was said, it’s that we have individuals who are extraordinary,” he said.
“But we have to put these individuals at the service of the collective.
“With the team we have, we have to scare everyone and today, being beaten 3-1 at home is disappointing.
“It’s sad. Now that’s over, we have to show a reaction.”
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