Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate cut short his compassionate leave to help his injury-hit team, scoring in a crucial win over Newcastle.
IBRAHIMA Konate returned to Liverpool ahead of schedule following his father’s death to help the Premier League champions navigate a defensive injury crisis.
The French international broke down in tears after scoring late in Saturday’s 4-1 win over Newcastle at Anfield.
Konate had missed Liverpool’s three previous matches after being granted compassionate leave.
He felt compelled to return early after injuries to Joe Gomez, Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley left manager Arne Slot short of defensive options.
“I don’t have words to describe what I feel right now because it was a very difficult moment for me and my family the last two weeks,” Konate told TNT Sports.
“I know that the team had some injured players, and the manager on the call said to take my time and I don’t have to rush back.”
The 26-year-old added that with the team’s situation, it was important for him to come back and help.
Slot hailed Konate’s commitment and performance, which helped end a run of five league games without a win in 2026.
“Ibou said earlier in the week to me ‘I’m going to come back a bit earlier than planned because I want to help the team’,” said Slot.
Hugo Ekitike struck twice and Florian Wirtz was also on target as Liverpool roared back after conceding first to Anthony Gordon’s strike.
The victory lifts Slot’s men up to fifth in the Premier League table.
