“He’s the toughest defender I’ve ever faced!” – Arsenal striker Victor Gyökeres hails Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté after 1-0 Anfield defeat
Following Arsenal’s narrow loss at Anfield—decided by Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time free kick—Victor Gyökeres delivered a telling admission.
Despite years of competing against Europe’s top centre-backs, the Swedish striker confessed that Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté stands out as the most relentless and imposing opponent of his career.
After the match, Gyökeres openly praised the French defender’s performance:
“I’ve gone up against world-class players, but no one compares to him. Every duel was a battle—Konaté is an absolute monster.”
Konaté put on a defensive clinic, blending pace, aerial dominance, and sheer strength to neutralize Arsenal’s new frontman.
While the visitors looked set to escape with a draw, Szoboszlai’s dramatic late winner secured the points and underlined the grit of Arne Slot’s side.
Gyökeres’ candid remarks further highlight Konaté’s rising reputation and Liverpool’s stature as one of Europe’s most resilient defensive unit
