Konate Withdraws from France Team with Thigh Injury

Liverpool, England – Ibrahima Konate has withdrawn from the France national team’s roster due to a thigh injury he sustained earlier this month. The 26-year-old center-back was named an unused substitute during France’s 3-0 World Cup qualifier victory over Azerbaijan last Friday.

France’s national team confirmed Konate’s withdrawal on Saturday, stating, “Having injured his right quadricep during his last match with Liverpool, Konate has followed a treatment and protocol since his arrival this Monday. However, he will not be able to take his place against Iceland on Monday.” Konate was forced out of action during Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on October 4, after experiencing discomfort.

In light of Konate’s withdrawal, Marseille’s Benjamin Pavard has been called up to fill his spot in the squad. Liverpool remains optimistic that Konate’s injury is minor. The club will conduct further assessments and treatment on the player, hoping he can return in time for their clash against Manchester United at Anfield on October 19.

This injury adds to Liverpool’s defensive troubles. The team has already lost other defenders and is down to limited options at center-back, with captain Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as their only fit options. Liverpool also faces the challenge of being without goalkeeper Alisson until the November international break due to a hamstring injury.

As Liverpool prepares for their upcoming matches, including a fixture against Manchester United, the situation raises questions about their defensive strategy. Coach Arne Slot may rely on Gomez if Konate cannot participate, or experiment with midfielders Ryan Gravenberch or Wataru Endo in a defensive role. The team will need to address their injury issues quickly as they aim to regain form after a disappointing stretch of results.