Konate confirms Liverpool exit with emotional post
Ibrahima Konate is leaving Liverpool as a free agent, with the France international confirming his departure via social media.
The Reds have had a tumultuous weekend, with the club announcing on Saturday that it had sacked head coach Arne Slot.
Slot led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season at Anfield, but it finished fifth, 24 points worse off, in 2025-2026.
Konate, meanwhile, turned in some inconsistent displays at the heart of the Reds defence.
News broke earlier this week that the Frenchman would not be signing a new deal, and Konate, who joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021, has now confirmed his exit.
"Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life," Konate wrote on Instagram.
"Representing this club has been an honour. We've shared incredible moments together. Highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo [Jota].
"Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.
"To my team-mates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day. And to the supporters, thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted.
"I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go. This isn't an easy goodbye, but it鈥檚 time for a new challenge and a new chapter."
Konate made 183 appearances for the Reds, which is the most by any French-born player for the club.
Of those games, 154 came alongside Virgil van Dijk, with the duo forming a formidable partnership in defence.
"Konate will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for the contribution he made and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future," a Liverpool statement read.
Konate won the Premier League, FA Cup, two Carabap Cups and the Community Shield during his time at Liverpool.
He has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, where he would once again team up with former Reds full back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
