France centre-back Ibrahima Konate joined Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer following the expiration of his contract at Liverpool.
Konate has established himself as a regular starter for Real Madrid this season, racking up seven appearances in all competitions, including six in La Liga.
The defender had been expected to represent France during the September/October international break and was in contention to start against Turkey on Friday following William Saliba’s absence.
However, Konate withdrew from the France squad after suffering an injury during training on Wednesday. Konate, has since been replaced by Manchester United defender Leny Yoro.
Konate felt discomfort during the session and withdrew as a precaution. Subsequent medical tests confirmed the injury, ruling him out of France’s four Nations League matches during the international break.
France will face Turkey on Friday, Italy on October 2 and Belgium twice, on September 28 and October 5. Real Madrid have since confirmed that Konate has been diagnosed with a collateral ligament injury in his right leg.
A club statement read: “Following tests carried out today on our player Ibrahima Konaté by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a collateral ligament injury in his right leg. His recovery will be monitored.”
Konate will continue his recovery under the supervision of the club’s medical staff. The 27-year-old has started every La Liga match except against Malaga, when he remained on the bench, and played the full 90 minutes in Real Madrid’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan.
Konate’s injury brings Real Madrid’s injury list to five players. The French centre-back joins Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo, who are recovering from long-term injuries, as well as Fede Valverde, who suffered a left ankle sprain during the derby against Atletico Madrid.
Dean Huijsen is suspended for Real Madrid’s next match after receiving a red card in the Madrid derby. Real Madrid will host Villarreal after the international break.
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