The game itself had everything — early goals, a controversial red card, a spirited fightback, and a stoppage-time winner. Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike put Liverpool in control before Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was dismissed following a clash with Virgil van Dijk. Reduced to ten men, the hosts still refused to surrender, with Bruno Guimaraes pulling one back in the second half.
Substitute William Osula then sent the home fans wild in the 88th minute, levelling the score in what looked to be a dramatic rescue for Newcastle. But teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha, just days away from his 17th birthday, produced a dream moment in stoppage time — slotting home the winner to seal a night of unforgettable drama.
Yet, despite the joy of maintaining a perfect league start under Arne Slot, much of the post-match conversation shifted to Konate’s struggles at the back.
The French defender, now in the final year of his Liverpool contract, endured a torrid evening. He was beaten too easily in the aerial duel that led to Osula’s equaliser, while earlier mistakes nearly gifted Newcastle further chances. For many fans, these lapses highlighted a worrying lack of focus and raised doubts about his long-term future at Anfield.
Speculation linking Konate with a move to Real Madrid has only intensified those concerns. Some supporters even suggested his “mind is already in Madrid,” questioning his concentration and commitment.
In contrast, Liverpool have been repeatedly linked with Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace’s captain, who is seen by many as a ready-made replacement. Guehi’s composure, leadership, and consistency have drawn praise across the Premier League, and his name has quickly risen to the top of fan wish-lists after Konate’s latest display.
The situation is complicated by timing. With the transfer window nearing its close, Liverpool’s hierarchy must decide whether to cash in on Konate before he can leave for free next summer — or back him to rediscover his best form.
Supporters, however, are growing impatient. Calls on social media for an immediate push to sign Guehi have grown louder, reflecting a modern football reality where player performances are judged instantly and relentlessly online.
For Slot, the challenge is clear: his system requires calm, assured centre-backs capable of building play under pressure. Konate has the tools, but his recent mistakes suggest the mental side of his game may not be aligned with Liverpool’s ambitions. Whether the Frenchman can turn it around — or whether the club turns to Guehi — could define the Reds’ defensive stability this season.
Leave a Reply