Ibrahima Konate explains what it meant to be him to play in Liverpool’s game with Wolves on an emotionally-charged afternoon aimed at remembering Diogo Jota
Ibrahima Konate has posted an emotional message of support to the family of Diogo Jota after Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers started with a moment of appreciation for the much-loved striker.
France international Konate says it felt like Jota was on the pitch with his colleagues once more as the Reds beat the rock-bottom Wolves to move into the top four of the Premier League.
Jota died in a car accident with his brother, Andre Silva, in northern Spain back in early July, and Saturday’s fixture was the first time the Reds have played Wolves, the club they signed the popular Portuguese from in 2020, since his shock and sudden death.
The No.20’s sons, Dinis and Duarte, were mascots for the game itself, while his widow, Rute, watched on from the stands and Konate, who played alongside the forward for four years on Merseyside, has revealed what it meant to be him to feature in such an emotionally-charged fixture.
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In a post on Instagram on Sunday, Konate wrote: “Yesterday, it was much more than just a match. If there is one game I would never have wanted to miss this season, it was this one.
“Diogo, we know we will never be able to step onto a football pitch with you again, my brother. But yesterday, it felt like we did. A part of you was with us, walking beside us before the match.“What a pleasure… and at the same time, what pain.“Seeing your family smiling, seeing your kids walk out, brought so much warmth to my heart. I gave everything, and I’m proud we won our fourth game in a row.“I’m happy the last few games have been better, and Inshallah we will kick on in 2026… and remember, enjoy every moment of this life.“Forever 20.”
Liverpool won the game thanks to first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz, despite a consolation in the second period by Santiago Bueno. The Premier League champions are next in action when they entertain Leeds United on New Year’s Day.
