Ibrahima Konate to miss Liverpool’s clash with Bournemouth | OneFootball

Liverpool set to be without Ibrahima Konate at AFC Bournemouth

Liverpool will travel to the south coast without Ibrahima Konate after the defender confirmed the death of his father, Hamady, earlier this week. The centre back has been in Paris with his family and will not be rushed back into football at such a sensitive time.

Konate missed the midweek trip to Marseille, where Liverpool secured a comfortable 3-0 win, and Arne Slot all but confirmed his absence for the Premier League fixture against AFC Bournemouth. The French international’s father’s funeral is scheduled for Friday in Aulnay-sous-Bois, giving further clarity over why the club has prioritised personal support over sporting considerations.

Slot was measured in his response when asked about Konate’s situation.

“I spoke to him a few times, and I think these are private matters and they should stay between us,” Slot said.

“But it’s very obvious that if something like that happens, then the player needs time to be there for his family and also time for himself.”

Photo: IMAGO

Joe Gomez partnership with Virgil van Dijk continues

In Konate’s absence, Joe Gomez is expected to continue alongside Virgil van Dijk, having impressed in Marseille. It was only the second time this season that the pair have started together, yet their understanding looked assured and calm, particularly in dealing with Marseille’s early pressure.

Gomez’s form will be encouraging for Slot, although there remains a note of caution. The last time Gomez started consecutive matches, he suffered a hamstring injury against Brighton. That history will not be forgotten by the medical staff, especially with a demanding run of fixtures ahead.

AFC Bournemouth test in busy Liverpool schedule

The visit to AFC Bournemouth comes at a crucial point in Liverpool’s season, as they balance domestic momentum with European commitments. After Saturday’s match, Liverpool return to Anfield to face Qarabag in their final Champions League league phase game.

Everyone at Anfield Index are sending their thoughts to Ibrahima Konate and his family at this time.