EXCLUSIVE: Arne Slot's NEW Liverpool rule for Ibrahima Konate REVEALED

The rise of Ibrahima Konate this season has been immensely refreshing to see.

The French defender has shown nothing but class when handed the opportunity to impress, and he has not disappointed.

The calmness, combined with Virgil van Dijk’s presence he has given to the back line has changed the defensive dynamic completely.

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Last season, the defensive shape was a huge worry and the Reds had a habit of throwing away games. This nervousness that was present has now disappeared and been replaced with an assured, more mature attitude.

The 25-year-old has been a revelation. What is also incredibly impressive is how Liverpool have managed to keep him fit. And this could be down to the genius of Arne Slot changing a habit employed by Jurgen Klopp.

Slot changes Klopp rule

Anfield Watch understands that Klopp continued to allow Konate to travel back to Paris to see friends and family during the midweek, even when he wasn’t injured during the German's tenure at Liverpool.

Slot and fitness coach Conall Murtagh have now ordered Konate to put a stop this, which has led him to be healthier and fitter than ever as he isn’t constantly travelling, which could have led to his being fatigued.

This has turned out to be a fantastic move from the Reds' manager.

Keeping the Frenchman from going abroad puts his body at rest with his focus on training and matchday.

This is testament to Slot’s genius. Konate has looked at his physical peak and stronger than ever. And this is reflective in his injury record.

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Of course, the Dutchman has only been managing Liverpool for a few months but the difference is stark.

Under Jurgen Klopp, Konate missed 37 games from 2022 to 2024 due to injuries. Under Slot, he has missed zero - only being omitted from one matchday squad against West Ham but that was to give him a rest.

In fact in his senior career Konate has NEVER started a season with 11 consecutive starts in the league.

Coincidence? We think not.

The decision to stop Ibou from flying back and forth to France could be an underrated stroke of magic that has allowed him to take his game to the next level.

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