Real Madrid have presented Ibrahima Konate as their latest signing in a private ceremony, with the France defender receiving the number 16 shirt from club president Florentino Perez.
The event was made available only through the club’s own media channels, continuing Real Madrid’s decision to unveil new arrivals away from the usual public celebrations. There was no ceremony attended by supporters and no accompanying press conference.
Instead, Konate’s presentation took place behind closed doors on Thursday. Perez formally welcomed the defender and handed him his new shirt, along with commemorative gifts marking his arrival at the Spanish club.
Real Madrid have continued to introduce their new players in this low-key format. The club are not staging the grand presentations traditionally associated with major signings this year, with supporters unable to attend the ceremonies in person.
It has been reported that the decision was made personally by Perez. The approach means the club’s own media outlets are the main source of coverage for each unveiling, rather than a public event featuring fans and journalists.
Konate had already agreed a contract with Real Madrid that will run until the middle of 2030. The France international joined the Madrid club as a free agent after spending five seasons with Liverpool.
His move brings to an end his time at Liverpool and begins a new spell with Real Madrid. The defender will wear number 16 for the Spanish side, following the presentation by Perez on Thursday.
The ceremony was the latest in a series of private introductions for Real Madrid’s new recruits. While the club has confirmed the arrivals through its media coverage, the format has differed from the lavish events with supporters and press conferences that have been used on previous occasions.
Konate’s presentation therefore completed another stage of his move to the Spanish capital. His contract has been secured through mid-2030, and the 16 shirt has now been officially placed in his hands by the Real Madrid president.
The club’s decision to keep the ceremony private ensures that the formal details of the transfer are presented without the large-scale celebrations that usually accompany a high-profile arrival. For now, the official images and coverage supplied by Real Madrid remain the focus of the defender’s welcome.
Konate is the latest player to be introduced in this way as Real Madrid continue their current presentation policy. His arrival from Liverpool on a free transfer, his long-term contract and his new squad number were all confirmed as part of Thursday’s closed ceremony.
