Ibrahima Konate sends touching message to Diogo Jota - 'A part of you was with us'

Ibrahima Konate has posted an emotional message on social media following the game between Liverpool and Wolves, two of Diogo Jota's former clubs, in the Premier League

Liverpool's players huddle in front of a banner bearing a tribute to Diogo Jota.(Image: Steven Halliwell/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate posted an emotional message on social media following his side's win over Wolves in the Premier League — the first time Diogo Jota's two former English teams met since his tragic passing.

Jota's two sons, Dinis and Duarte, led the teams out at Anfield. His widow, Rute, was in attendance and she later thanked the fans of both teams for their "love, respect and support" during an "incredibly difficult time".

In the 18th minute, Wolves fans sang Jota's name (he wore that jersey number for the Midlands outfit) before the home supporters at Anfield sang the player's song in the 20th minute, which has become a tradition.

"It was an emotional afternoon," Konate posted on Instagram. "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."

Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool stands with the children of former player Diogo Jota as mascots(Image: Offside via Getty Images)

Heading into the game, Virgil van Dijk was asked about the Jota song being sung at Anfield at every game.

"We’ve discussed that and we’re at a stage now where it doesn’t affect us," Van Dijk told The Times. "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."

Earlier today, it was confirmed that funds raised by Liverpool fans to create a mural in honor of Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, will help fund a new grassroots football program in his name, delivered by LFC Foundation.

Liverpool-based artist Paul Curtis set an initial target of £2,000 to cover the costs of the mural. However, donations surpassed that amount in little over half an hour.

In the end, more than £26,000 was raised. After covering the crowdfunder fees, material expenses and the cost of the plaque, the remaining amount of £23,924 will be donated to the LFC Foundation, the club's official charity.