Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate has sparked the Ballon d’Or argument having chosen his French counterpart Ousmane Dembele ahead of Mohamed Salah.
Konate made his position very clear when speaking passionately to the media.
What did Konate say?
“We talk about Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe… But no one talks about Ousmane Dembele. He has delivered an exceptional season,” he told the media ahead of his UEFA Nations League semi-finals duel.
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“I have honestly no other words to describe it. Nobody expected it. I’m the happiest man for him. In all honesty, the most deserving Ballon d’Or winner is Ousmane Dembele.”
Dembele had a tremendous 2024/25 UEFA Champions League run with Paris Saint-Germain, playing an important role in their historic first title victory. In his 15 appearances, he found the back of the net eight times and registered six assists.
Konate makes a daring statement…
Particularly given Salah’s prominent performances in the English Premier League, the Frenchman’s selection is unexpected.
Still, the defender has opted to highlight a fellow France international, usually flying beneath the radar.
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This decision draws attention to the Vernon-born player’s rebirth, especially following his amazing season with PSG.
National teammates like Konate have not overlooked his form, work ethic, and influence in crucial situations.
What influenced Konate’s choice?
The Reds’ defender thinks his French teammate’s efforts have gone underappreciated even if Mbappe and Lamine Yamal capture media attention.
Not only for statistics but also for the trip and change he has shown this year, he views his French friend as the most worthy.
The Paris-born footballer will be in action in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals clash with Spain on Thursday in Stuttgart.
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