Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is reportedly in contention to replace Raphael Varane in France’s FIFA World Cup squad, with the fears growing that the Manchester United centre-back will now miss the competition.
According to L’Equipe via GFFN, the Red Devils superstar is likely to miss out on a spot to Qatar after picking up a hamstring injury in United’s 1-1 draw against Chelsea, with Varane leaving the pitch in tears. And as a result, Liverpool talent Konate could be called up to replace the former Real Madrid defender.
The 23-year-old centre-back has endured injury problems of his own this season, with Konate only making two appearances for Liverpool in all competitions, both of which came from the bench. However, there is a sense that the Reds titan will be fit in time for the World Cup.
And the timing could not have been more perfect for Konate. Whilst it is a shame that Varane will now likely miss the World Cup, the Liverpool defender can now make a real claim for himself with Les Bleus should the centre-back be selected by Didier Deschamps this November.
Indeed, Konate is now in a race against time to get match-fit for the World Cup, with the defender yet to play for Liverpool since their 7-1 win against Rangers in the UEFA Champions League. However, with many matches still on the horizon for the Reds, the packed schedule could be a benefit to the defender.
Whilst Varane’s absence is a blow for France, the opportunity for Konate is huge, and the defender should be doing all he can to make himself fit for Qatar and to impress his national team that he’s the man to replace the £41m Premier League superstar this November.
Varane missing the World Cup must be seized by Konate
Konate’s injury problems have been a major concern for Liverpool this season. However, with the defender on the verge of a full return from fitness and Varane now set to miss the World Cup, this unique opportunity must be seized by the former RB Leipzig defender.
After all, the centre-back has the potential to become a key player for France in the future, and Varane missing out on this World Cup could give Deschamps the excuse to look towards the next generation, with William Saliba likely to feature as well should Konate make it to Qatar.
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