Liverpool’s defensive struggles have become a central focus amid a disappointing run of form for the club, currently 11th in the Premier League table after a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on saturday. Centre-back Ibrahima Konate was singled out for criticism following the match, even being substituted in the 55th minute, but fellow defender Bacary Sagna argues the blame doesn’t fall solely on the 24-year-old. Sagna suggests a lack of midfield support is a key factor in Liverpool’s recent defensive vulnerabilities, a sentiment echoed as the club faces increasing pressure to secure Champions League qualification.
Liverpool –
Ibrahima Konate is facing scrutiny as Liverpool struggles to regain its form, but compatriot Bacary Sagna believes it’s unfair to place the blame solely on the defender.
The defending champions have stumbled since October, securing only one victory in their last seven Premier League matches, alongside six defeats.
That recent downturn was highlighted on Saturday, November 22, 2025, with a stunning 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at Anfield. Konate had a particularly difficult outing and was directly at fault for Forest’s second goal, leading to his substitution after just 55 minutes and a wave of criticism.
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Liverpool has conceded 20 goals in just 12 Premier League games this season. Sagna argues that singling out Ibrahima Konate is misguided, as the defensive line’s performance is heavily influenced by the protection offered by the midfield.
“Ibrahima Konate can’t be held responsible for Liverpool’s recent struggles,” the former Arsenal star told Oddspedia, as quoted by ECHO. “Liverpool’s penalty area isn’t being protected, and we saw that again against Nottingham Forest this past weekend.”
“You can’t judge Konate’s quality based on a few games where the midfield isn’t doing its job defensively. The second and third goals from Nottingham Forest on Saturday were a direct result of Liverpool’s midfield failing to protect the scorers.”
“If you leave players exposed inside the penalty area in the Premier League, you will be punished. I don’t want to blame Konate or anyone else for this, because they need help from everyone on the team,” Sagna stated.
Liverpool’s poor run of form has them sitting outside the top 10 in the Premier League table. The Reds are currently 11th with 18 points, 11 points behind league leaders Arsenal. This result adds pressure as Liverpool aims to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
(rin/aff)
