Ibrahima Konate has spoken bravely about the profound effect of two tragic deaths in his life—those of his Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota and his father—which occurred within the span of a year. The French defender, who is set to leave Anfield this summer after failing to agree a new contract, is likely to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Diogo Jota's Death
Jota died in a car crash last summer, along with his brother, shocking the entire Liverpool squad. Konate, who lived near Jota, admitted the loss still feels unreal. "Even today it's hard to believe. His locker was still there in the dressing room," Konate told France Inter radio. "I remember when I found out I was in Los Angeles and I couldn't believe it. It devastated me. I didn't have any interest in anything else at that point."
Konate described Jota as someone who "just wanted to be happy" and was not interested in fame. Returning to football was difficult, but Konate noted, "You go back to football because you have no choice. We're employees at a club that pays us every month, so we have duties." He added that winning games was a way to honour Jota's memory.
Father's Illness and Death
Compounding his grief, Konate's father, Hamady, suffered a serious illness and died in January. Konate struggled with the decision to stay with the team or return home. "At the start of the season, my father was in hospital for several weeks. I didn't know what to do," he said. He kept his feelings to himself, but now advises others to talk about their struggles. "When you're feeling down, you need to talk to those around you. It can help you and do you good."
Konate returned early from compassionate leave to help an injury-hit Liverpool, but confessed, "There was never a moment when I felt like I was on the mend."
