EPL: Personal tragedies affected me last season - Konaté

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté has disclosed that personal tragedies significantly affected his performance during the 2025-26 season. The French international, who made 51 appearances for Liverpool last season as the club finished fifth in the Premier League, struggled to consistently replicate his previous high standards.

Konaté, a regular in the Liverpool defense and a key player for the France national team, reflected on a difficult campaign marked by a series of personal losses. He described these events as emotionally draining, making it challenging to maintain his focus and performance at the highest level of football. "There was never a moment when I felt like I was on the mend. All of these tragic events happened so quickly and as soon as I felt like I was getting my head above water, something else happened," Konaté told BBC Sport.

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There was never a moment when I felt like I was on the mend. All of these tragic events happened so quickly and as soon as I felt like I was getting my head above water, something else happened.

Despite the emotional toll, Konaté emphasized the importance of the support he received from various quarters. He acknowledged the exceptional backing from Liverpool fans, his teammates, and particularly his family. However, he also recognized the personal responsibility he felt towards his team, which necessitated finding inner strength to continue playing. "I had the support of all these fans, who are exceptional at Liverpool, my team-mates and especially my family but I also had to learn how to get back on my feet on my own because the team needed me more than ever and I know that my father would have wanted me to get back," he stressed.

Konaté's candid admission sheds light on the unseen emotional strain behind his performances last season. While remaining a crucial part of Liverpool's defense and continuing his international duties with France, he navigated profound personal challenges. His comments underscore the human element of professional sports, where athletes often balance intense public scrutiny with private struggles.

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I had the support of all these fans, who are exceptional at Liverpool, my team-mates and especially my family but I also had to learn how to get back on my feet on my own because the team needed me more than ever and I know that my father would have wanted me to get back.