Veteran centre-back praises his defensive partner while addressing Champions League final predictions.
In a powerful interview with L’Équipe, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has declared that Ibrahima Konaté is “better than I was at his age”, backing the Frenchman to evolve into a true leader at Anfield. The defensive pair were central to Liverpool’s 20th league title campaign, starting 29 of 38 matches together — a symbol of stability in Arne Slot’s backline.
Van Dijk, now 33, openly praised Konaté’s physical prowess and growing maturity:
> “Ibou is fast, strong, and improving. He’s had his best season since joining us. He wants to lead — and he’s getting there.”
Having joined from RB Leipzig for £36m in 2021, Konaté has racked up 132 appearances and is now entering the final 12 months of his contract. While he hasn’t yet reached Van Dijk’s all-time best Liverpool partners — like Joe Gomez — the Dutchman hinted that Konaté is on a trajectory to surpass them.
When asked about the upcoming Champions League final between PSG and Inter Milan, Van Dijk leaned toward the Italians:
> “PSG made a strong impression, but Inter have the edge in experience. I played against both — it’ll be tight.”
Van Dijk also reflected on Liverpool’s clash with PSG in the round of 16:
> “They dominated us, but we were clinical. In the return leg, we could’ve changed everything early.”
As Liverpool prepares for a post-Klopp era, Van Dijk’s endorsement of Konaté isn’t just flattery — it’s a signal that the next generation of leadership is already emerging. Whether Konaté signs a renewal soon could become one of the first major tasks in
Arne Slot’s new reign.
