Real Madrid says goodbye to Ibrahima Konaté

The French center-back was one of Real Madrid's main targets to improve their defense

Héctor Andreu | 13 Aug 2025 | 18.35
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Konaté will not sign for Real Madrid / 90min
Konaté will not sign for Real Madrid / 90min

Premier League
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Liverpool Crystal Palace
25/04/26 16:00:00
1.48 4.20 6.25

Real Madrid faces the start of the league season with the tranquility of having all the pieces it deems necessary to compete at the highest level. After the resounding 0-4 victory against WSG Tirol in the last preseason friendly, Xabi Alonso's team is now solely focused on their first official match at the Santiago Bernabéu against Osasuna.

In Real Madrid, they are aware that the transfer market still has room for surprises, but the roadmap is set: the squad is closed, and there will be no new additions unless an unexpected departure occurs. The name causing the most buzz is Rodrygo Goes, whose future remains uncertain due to the interest from various European clubs. However, there are currently no advanced negotiations suggesting an imminent departure of the Brazilian forward.

As reported by 'DefensaCentral', the direct consequence of this stance is the complete ruling out of signing Ibrahima Konaté in the summer of 2025. The French center-back from Liverpool had been on the Madrid radar, especially given the need to strengthen the defense in case of physical setbacks, but the sports management considers it not a priority to incorporate another defender at this time.

The main reason behind this decision has a name: Éder Militão. The Brazilian defender has overcome his physical issues and has shown full form in recent matches. His outstanding performance against WSG Tirol convinced the coaching staff that he can be the defensive leader this season, forming a solid partnership with Dean Huijsen in the most demanding games.

The focus of the planning now shifts to 2026. If Konaté maintains his stance of not renewing his contract with Liverpool, Real Madrid could incorporate him without paying a transfer fee, fitting perfectly into the club's economic strategy. However, Anfield will do everything possible to prevent a similar exodus like that of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was also close to leaving for free at one point.

Real Madrid Postpones Konaté's Signing

Currently, the sports policy is based on continuity and trust in the current squad. Xabi Alonso has told his players that there will be no immediate additions, and the responsibility to achieve the goals will lie on the group that has worked in this preseason. This stability, according to internal sources, is crucial for the team to focus on sports rather than market speculation.

Militão, on his part, has expressed happiness at feeling important on the field again. After the friendly in Innsbruck, he stated that he was "very happy to be available for the coach" and assured that his commitment to the team is total. For the Brazilian, every game is an opportunity to regain his best form and provide leadership in defense.

In this context, Real Madrid 2025 presents itself as a balanced project, with established players and young talents ready to step up. The defensive line, which a few months ago raised doubts due to injuries, now conveys security thanks to the recovery of its key components.

The fans, who always demand the best, seem to support the decision not to rush into signings. Many see the Militão-Huijsen duo as a bet for the present and future, while the possibility of adding Konaté for free next year is perceived as a masterstroke in economic terms.

Meanwhile, the schedule indicates that the next challenge is Osasuna, a rival looking to spoil the home league debut. Xabi Alonso is already preparing the game plan, trusting that the defensive solidity and attacking efficiency shown against WSG Tirol will continue.

In conclusion, Real Madrid has decided to close ranks and bet on what they have. Ibrahima Konaté's signing will have to wait until 2026, and the immediate priority is to start the league on a positive note. In Chamartín, they believe that stability and confidence in the squad are the safest path to titles, and that spending more does not always equate to improvement.

With the market still open, nothing can be considered final, but barring unforeseen movements, this will be the group defending the white shield during the 2025 season. A team that combines experience, youth, and a hunger for victory, with the Santiago Bernabéu ready to experience a new season full of emotions.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Real Madrid se despide de Ibrahima Konaté

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