Zinedine Zidane has ruled defender Ibrahima Konaté out of France’s national team training camp after the Real Madrid center-back sustained a knee injury while preparing for the launch of the UEFA Nations League campaign.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed that Konaté is suffering from a mild sprain in his right knee, clarifying that the decision to send him back to Madrid was taken jointly by Les Bleus’ medical staff and their counterparts at the Spanish club.
The defender reported discomfort during the final training session at Clairefontaine prior to traveling to Turkey. Initial medical assessments indicated the need for rest, avoiding any risk during the international break.
Zidane elected to call up Manchester United defender Leny Yoro as his replacement, coming at a time when William Saliba also remains unavailable due to a severe back injury suffered during the FIFA World Cup.
Konaté’s injury is not initially believed to be serious, with early estimates suggesting he could return in time for Real Madrid’s fixture against Villarreal on October 10. However, his definitive timeline will be established following further medical evaluation in the Spanish capital.
The setback arrives after the Frenchman established himself as a cornerstone of José Mourinho’s side, featuring in nearly seven full matches (630 total minutes) and starting all six of Real Madrid’s La Liga fixtures this season.
Konaté joined Real Madrid on a free transfer from Liverpool, signing a contract through June 2030. Any potential absence will force Mourinho to adjust his central defensive partnership alongside Dean Huijsen or Antonio Rüdiger.
The international break affords Real Madrid nearly 20 days prior to their encounter with Villarreal, mitigating the immediate impact, though the club will not rush the defender back until his knee is fully healed.
