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Ibrahima Konate 'deeply saddened' as he leaves Liverpool with emotional post - 'I gave…

Ibrahima Konate posts an emotional departing message as he prepares to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract next month

PARIS, FRANCE - APRIL 08: Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final First Leg match between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Liverpool FC at Parc des Princes on April 08, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Ibrahima Konate will leave Liverpool this summer(Image: Getty Images)

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Ibrahima Konate says he leaves Liverpool with "memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life" after formally announcing his exit on Sunday.

Konate, who joined from RB Leipzig in a £36m deal in the summer of 2021, will depart when his contract expires on June 30.

The centre-back and his representatives had been in talks with Anfield chiefs since November 2023 but no agreement on an extension was reached, meaning the France international walks away as a free agent.

Liverpool officially confirmed his departure on Sunday evening and in an emotional post to his social media channels, the 27-year-old Konate explained that he made the decision with a heavy heart.

"Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams," Konate wrote. "Today I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

"Representing this club has been an honour. We've shared incredible moments together...highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever. None more painful than losing my brother, Diogo.

"Losing my father earlier this year was one of the hardest periods of my life but even through that hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During my toughest moments, I gave everything for the badge.

"To my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.

"And to the supporters...thank you for your love, your energy and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place and playing in front of you was something that I never took for granted.

"I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at my last game. At that moment I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go.

"This isn't an easy goodbye. But it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter.

"See you again soon. Inshallah. YNWA."

Konate leaves having won the Premier League, FA Cup and two League Cups during his time as a Liverpool player.

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