Karim Konate back in force at Red Bull Salzburg

The Ivorian international has been scoring goals in the Austrian league since returning from injury.

It's a triumphant return for Karim Konate in Austria. After suffering a cruciate ligament injury in November 2024, the 21-year-old striker was sidelined for a year.

He only returned to competition in November 2025. Since his return to the pitch with Red Bull Salzburg, the Ivorian has been very effective in front of goal, particularly in his club's last four matches in the Austrian Bundesliga. In four league appearances, Konate has scored three goals. The highlight of this remarkable performance was his brace against LASK (1-5) on Sunday 22 February in the Matchday 20 of the Austrian Bundesliga.

This performance could resonate in Ivory Coast, particularly with the national team coach, Emerse Fae. Karim Konate, who was not part of Fae's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, could return to the national team thanks to his performances. The Ivorian national team, which is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup jointly organised by the United States, Canada and Mexico, may need Konate's services to boost its attacking efficiency.