Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has expressed support for a potential players’ strike, citing the increasingly demanding schedule faced by top European teams.
Konate, currently on international duty with France, has been a key figure for the Reds throughout the opening months of the season.
The 24-year-old has formed a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.
He has featured in six of the last seven Premier League matches and has played a crucial role in a team that has kept six clean sheets across all competitions this season.
The congested football calendar has been a topic of growing concern in recent weeks, with several high-profile players voicing frustrations over the physical toll it takes.
Earlier in the season, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker spoke out about the issue, and his concerns were echoed by Manchester City’s Rodri, who even suggested the possibility of players striking to protest the excessive number of fixtures.
When asked about the idea of a strike, Konate openly supported the notion, indicating that he would back such a movement if it came to fruition.
“It’s a subject that shouldn’t be neglected,” Konate told RMC Sport when asked about concerns about the current schedule.
“There’s no discussion at Liverpool, there’s no pressure from the club.
“We hear that some clubs prefer their players to stay but we also have to understand them, there are so many games.
“The players are the club’s employees even if the national teams are just as important.
‘We have to stay fit all season and it’s hard but it’s beyond us.”
Ibrahima Konate added: “If it continues on this dynamic, of course if the players decide to bang their fists on the table and we are all together.
“If tomorrow, there is a movement that can lead to an understanding, of course I will be part of it.
“And I think that all the players will follow.”
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