Arne Slot was speaking after Ibrahima Konate impressed in Liverpool’s 4-1 win over Newcastle
23:36, 31 Jan 2026Updated 23:37, 31 Jan 2026
Ibrahima Konate scored Liverpool’s fourth against Newcastle(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Arne Slot has revealed Ibrahima Konate chose to return early from compassionate leave to help Liverpool after an emotional evening for the defender. Konate scored in additional time to cap an impressive performance in the 4-1 Premier League win for the Reds against Newcastle United at Anfield on Saturday.
The France international, who had missed the previous three games, was making his first appearance following the death of his father last week.
His goal prompted heartfelt celebrations in front of the Kop with Alisson Becker, who lost his father during the 2020/21 season, running the length of the field to congratulate Konate on his goal.
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And Liverpool boss Slot said: “He had a very difficult two weeks and probably still has a difficult time.
“We spoke at the end of last week and he said he was planning to be back at the end of this week, which would have meant he couldn’t play in this game.
“But when he saw the problems we had defensively he called me earlier this week and he wanted to be back to help the team against Newcastle.
“He came back Wednesday, trained twice with us and today he not only scored a goal but also played a great game.
“The fans were appreciative throughout the whole game and definitely at the end when he scored, and his team-mates were just as appreciative when he came into the dressing room after the final whistle.”
Konate was given a huge hug from two-goal Hugo Ekitike after the final whistle, with Slot also detailing the later reaction of his team-mates.
“He and Florian had an interview after the game, so we are all waiting, waiting, waiting for the last two to come in,” said the Reds head coach.
“And then when he came in, of course everyone was cheering for the both of them but definitely for Ibou.
“It is very nice for him to score a goal when he is having such a difficult time and this team has shown we are always there for each other in difficult circumstances, and that’s what they were for him in the last few days. That’s why he was so happy to score.”