The anticipation is over: Ibrahima Konaté will soon share the pitch with Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid. The French defender’s transfer to the Spanish giants, confirmed during the World Cup, marks a new chapter in his career after leaving Liverpool as a free agent at the end of May.
Konaté, who turns 28 this year, signed a four-year deal with Real Madrid, binding him to the club until June 2030. His arrival at the club’s training center in Valdebebas will coincide with the end of the World Cup and the summer break, allowing both players to reunite ahead of the 2026 tournament.
On May 31, just as he arrived at Clairefontaine for France’s World Cup 2026 preparations, Konaté shared a heartfelt message on Instagram reflecting on his five seasons at Liverpool. “Five years ago, I arrived here as a young player full of dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me forever,” he wrote. The post highlighted the highs and lows, including triumphs, challenges, lifelong friendships, and the painful loss of teammate Diogo Jota.
Konaté’s emotional farewell to Liverpool
In a touching message, the French center-back expressed his gratitude to teammates, coaches, staff, and fans. “To my teammates, coaches, and everyone behind the scenes—thank you for helping me grow every single day,” he wrote. “To the supporters… thank you for your love, energy, and incredible support. Anfield is a truly special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted. I’m deeply saddened I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to all of you during the last match.”
Mbappé’s warm welcome for his teammate
The news of Konaté’s move was officially announced on Thursday, with both Real Madrid and the player sharing the announcement on their social media platforms. Kylian Mbappé, France’s captain and Konaté’s teammate in the national team, reacted with enthusiasm. While representing France at the World Cup in the United States, Mbappé took to Instagram to comment on the club’s post, writing, “Ibou” alongside a heart emoji. The gesture underscored the strong bond between the two players, who will now share the pitch at both international and club levels.
More Stories
Rabat hosts inaugural ceremony for african culture capital headquarters
N’Djamena youth tackle hardship through sand trade struggles
Morocco’s baraka advocates proactive diplomacy amid global tensions