Ibrahima Konate shared an emotional post in recognition of the tributes to Diogo Jota against Wolves, with the Frenchman saying it was the one game he never wanted to miss.
The visit of Wolves over the weekend saw tributes paid to Jota from both clubs and sets of supporters, with his two sons, Dinis and Duarte, also leading the teams out.
Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, watched from the touchline and later thanked Liverpool and the fans “for the love, respect and support” during “this incredibly difficult time.”
The grief is still raw, as exemplified by Konate’s post on Instagram on Sunday evening, in which he directly addressed Jota after what was an “emotional afternoon.”
“It was an emotional afternoon,” Konate started. “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.”
A touching tribute to a friend and teammate that was more like a brother.
Liverpool fans told its OK to sing Diogo Jota’s song
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Friday, August 15, 2025: Liverpool supporters holding up a banner to pay tribute to Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in July, on the Spion Kop before the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and AFC Bournemouth at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Liverpool fans have sung Jota’s sung in the 20th minute of each game this season, but debate emerged over whether it was helping or hindering the players.
Virgil van Dijk, however, has reassured supporters that it is not an issue for the team.
The captain told The Times: “We’ve discussed that and we’re at a stage now where it doesn’t affect us.
“It’s obviously a sign of respect from our fans. So it’s up to the fans what will happen, but just to let anyone know that it doesn’t affect us.
“I remember the friendly game against Preston where it was really, really tough, but that was only two weeks after the accident.
“The minute’s silence in the home game against Bournemouth was very, very difficult. But I think we’re at the stage now where we want to use it as strength.
“Diogo would want us to succeed, he would want us to do well, and that’s the main thing. And I think the fans sing only out of the respect they have for Diogo because he deserves it.”