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Ibrahima Konate is facing mounting criticism as Liverpool’s defensive struggles continue, with former Red Jermaine Pennant stating he is losing patience with the center-back.
After an impressive 2024–25 campaign, Konate, like many of his Liverpool teammates, is struggling this season, prompting Real Madrid to withdraw interest in signing him on a free transfer next year. A reckless challenge by Konate sparked Leeds’ comeback to earn a point against Liverpool.
The French defender’s slide tackle on Wilfried Gnonto initially went unpunished, but after consulting the pitchside monitor, referee Anthony Taylor overturned his decision and awarded a penalty, which Dominic Calvert-Lewin calmly converted.
Manchester United legend Gary Neville argued that Konate’s clumsy tackle left him exposed and fully deserving of a penalty.
"He sort of seems to tangle his legs with him - I'm not sure," said Neville on commentary. "I think he slides at the wrong angle, so clumsy from Konate.
"The ball is still in there, actually, as well. So, he's in trouble, Konate. It's really rash. Such an experienced player.
"That angle is conclusive. The angle from the other side, I wasn't sure, but that angle is conclusive. He slides right into Gnonto and basically wipes him out."
Pennant has also vented his frustrations at Konate's recent performances. Taking to X, he said: I’m done with Konate now seriously fourth game in a row he makes a mistake leading to a goal.
"He’s strong and quick but thats it, technically he’s awful, doesn’t win aerial duels even tho he’s 6”4, passing ability of Sunday league. Marc Guehi please come January 1st.
Arne Slot has limited options for shielding Konate, as he is one of only three experienced centre-backs in the squad alongside Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
Gomez, who has struggled with fitness for much of the past year, returned from a serious hamstring injury at the start of the season but has seen his minutes restricted this term due to a knee problem.
Konate isn't the only player who has frustrated Pennant.
He noted on the 'Wildcards' podcast that Cody Gakpo has become too predictable, often cutting inside in the same way. He said: “How are you not making these changes? How about play Gakpo off because he’s so predictable.
"He doesn’t go down the line. If there’s a man, if a man’s holding him up, he’s just going to come inside, play to one of the midfielders or try and shoot.”
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