Konaté’s response, Real Madrid target, about Kylian Mbappé: ‘What he has done…’
🔍 Konaté on Mbappé’s First Season at Real Madrid: “What He Did Was Exceptional”
Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool’s commanding centre-back and one of the pillars of France’s national team, has offered a candid verdict on his compatriot Kylian Mbappé after the striker’s first season at Real Madrid. And while the season wasn’t as dominant for the club as expected, Konaté has no doubts about Mbappé’s individual impact.
“For me, it was a success,” Konaté stated. “Winning the Golden Boot in your first year in Spain, with new teammates and the pressure he had, isn’t something just anyone can do. His season was exceptional.”
🏆 A Golden Boot and Global Recognition
Despite Madrid only lifting two minor trophies — the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup — Mbappé’s personal numbers stood out, especially in the latter half of the campaign. After a slow start, he exploded into form, overtaking the top scorers across all major European leagues to claim the European Golden Boot.
His rise has not gone unnoticed by his teammates and opponents — and certainly not by his countrymen. Konaté, called up for the final stretch of the UEFA Nations League with France, made sure to highlight Mbappé’s achievement in a season filled with expectations and transition.
👀 A Madrid Move on the Horizon?
Konaté’s public praise hasn’t gone unnoticed in Valdebebas either — and not just because of his words. The Frenchman is reportedly on Real Madrid’s radar, particularly with a long-term generational shift brewing at the back.
Madrid has already secured Dean Huijsen, but with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger both entering the final phases of their prime, the club is preparing for a future transition. Konaté, whose contract at Liverpool runs until 2026, is in a pivotal moment.
He’s yet to renew with the Reds, and his current situation could make him a free agent in just one year — a potential bargain for a player of his calibre.
📊 Why Konaté Makes Sense for Madrid
- Age: At 25, he fits Madrid’s ideal profile — experience at the top level, but plenty of years ahead.
- Versatility: Can play both sides of central defence, comfortable in high lines, fast transitions.
- Experience: Champions League finalist, Premier League veteran, and regular for France.
- Cost: Could arrive for free in 2026, or at a reduced fee in 2025 if no renewal is signed.
⏳ What’s Next?
Madrid are known to move stealthily when it comes to high-value, low-cost transfers — as seen with Antonio Rüdiger, who arrived on a free from Chelsea. Konaté could follow a similar path, and his recent statements about Mbappé may be more than just admiration — they could be a subtle opening act for what’s to come.
If Liverpool can’t tie him down soon, Florentino Pérez might swoop in to add yet another Frenchman to a squad that’s slowly becoming the foundation of France’s national team for the next decade.
