Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has disclosed that manager Arne Slot told the squad last summer they were capable of clinching the Premier League title this season.
The Dutch coach succeeded Jurgen Klopp in July 2024 and successfully ended Manchester City’s streak of four consecutive league victories by leading Liverpool to their 20th English top-flight title on Sunday, following a resounding 5-1 victory over Tottenham at a jubilant Anfield.
“He introduces something fresh, particularly in terms of playing style,” the 25-year-old Konate stated.
“Just before the season kicked off, he highlighted the reasons we fell short in the league last year, focusing on certain details, and expressed that if we could rectify those and make improvements, we’d have a strong chance to win the league.
“That’s precisely what we’ve been executing since the season began. We should take pride in that.”
Following his appointment after Klopp’s remarkably successful nine-year tenure, Slot shifted from Klopp’s intense pressing tactics to a more measured, possession-oriented approach.
The alterations paid off as Liverpool secured the title with four matches yet to play.
Slot marked his achievement on the pitch at Anfield after Sunday’s match in his typically understated manner, yet Konate feels his manager deserves all the recognition.
“I noticed him on the pitch not wanting to accept any accolades; he walked behind us, and it’s remarkable to be that humble,” the Frenchman expressed.
“Yes, we’re running on the pitch and giving our all, but he has contributed immensely to our success. Thanks to him, and thanks to the supporters.”
‘Savour the moment’
Konate was a crucial element in Liverpool’s first Premier League title in five years, establishing a formidable partnership with captain Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Slot’s defence.
The Paris native is approaching the final year of his contract, but he refrained from discussing whether he plans to follow Van Dijk’s lead by extending his tenure at Liverpool.
He remarked that it would be “a conversation with the club,” but recognised that winning the Premier League was a memory he would treasure forever.
“For a player, it’s the most significant achievement because upon retirement, it’s what you truly remember and you still hold it in your hands. Winning the Premier League is especially incredible – what a trophy,” Konate articulated.
“After the match, I walked into the stadium and sat in the stand to experience it as a fan, and I struggle to find the right words to express how I felt. I simply wanted to relish the moment privately.
“We achieved this with 60,000 fans cheering us on. I wanted to experience something different, and now I feel immense joy. I was on the verge of tears. It’s unbelievable, and we need to fully embrace it now.
“It’s amazing to have achieved this after four seasons, and I’m overjoyed. Competing in the best league in the world, we understand just how challenging it is to win the Premier League every year.
“Since I was a child, I’ve followed this league religiously, and now to actually win it feels unreal. I’m the first French player from Liverpool to lift this trophy. It’s unbelievable.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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