Report: Konate backs Frimpong to thrive in Liverpool right-back role | OneFootball

Konate Confident in Frimpong Chemistry Ahead of New Liverpool Era

Liverpool’s backline is preparing for a reshuffle this summer, with Jeremie Frimpong arriving from Bayer Leverkusen in a £29.5 million deal. One man unfazed by the change is Ibrahima Konate, who has shared his confidence in forming an effective partnership with the Dutch full-back.

For the first time since 2017, the right-back slot at Liverpool is set for a major overhaul. With Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to play a more advanced midfield role under new manager Arne Slot, the door has opened for either Frimpong or Conor Bradley to cement themselves as first-choice.

Despite the uncertainty, Konate is not concerned about how things will gel in defence. Speaking to The Athletic, the Frenchman made it clear he trusts Frimpong’s ability to settle quickly and meet Slot’s demands.

“I think the coach’s instructions to him will be clear because we’ll do lots of video work,” he said.

“The fact he’s signed for us means he must have spoken to the coach a lot, so he’ll know what the coach expects from him.

“It’ll be different with him compared to Trent. That’s for sure, because they’re different players.

“But I’m happy for him. He’s a good person, very funny, and I wish him every happiness at Liverpool when he arrives. I have no worries about him.”

Photo: IMAGO

New Dynamics at Right-Back

Frimpong brings a very different profile to the role. Unlike the more measured and playmaking qualities of Alexander-Arnold, the former Leverkusen man is known for his explosive pace and forward thrusts. In truth, he has often played more as a wing-back or even an attacking winger.

This gives Arne Slot plenty to work with as he begins shaping his system at Anfield. Whether Frimpong operates as a conventional right-back or provides width higher up the pitch remains to be seen, but the squad appears ready to embrace his qualities.

Konate’s trust will be crucial. Defensive chemistry does not form overnight, but clear communication and understanding are the building blocks. Slot’s video-heavy approach to coaching may also help speed up that process, especially with Frimpong’s eagerness to learn.

One of Frimpong’s biggest assets may not even be his technical skill, but his presence in the dressing room. Multiple voices from his former club have highlighted the positive impact he brings to the group.

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella spoke highly of the 23-year-old in an interview with Sky Sports.

“He’s probably one of my favourite teammates that I’ve had.

“He’s just got so much energy, he’s always in a good mood, he’s someone you always want to see.

“If you’re doing well, he’s one of the players you always want to have around you.”

Tella also underlined Frimpong’s upward trajectory.

“First of all he’s a brilliant player.

“He wouldn’t have been able to get the move or have the interest he’s had without having great performances for a number of years now.

“He’s just one of those players who gets better every game. I don’t think it’ll take him any time to adapt.

“I’m quite confident that his speed, his main asset, is going to give defenders a lot of problems and he’ll be able to use it to get goals for Liverpool and to create chances as well.”

Frimpong’s Arrival Signals Tactical Evolution

Frimpong’s signing represents more than a new name on the team sheet. It signals a tactical evolution for Liverpool. Slot appears ready to depart from the patterns set by his predecessor and bring a faster, more fluid approach down the right.

The early signs suggest the chemistry between Konate and Frimpong could be crucial to that transition. Konate, now a senior figure in the backline, will likely act as a stabilising influence beside Frimpong, allowing the Dutchman to roam forward with confidence.

If their understanding develops quickly, it could become one of Liverpool’s most dynamic defensive partnerships in years.