Konate reveals depression after deaths of Jota & father
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Ibrahima Konate joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 By Steve Sutcliffe BBC Sport journalist Published 6 minutes ago Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has opened up on how the deaths of team-mate Diogo Jota and his father left him battling depression during his final season at the club. Portugal forward Jota and his brother Andre Silva, tragically died in a car crash last July , while Konate's dad Hamady passed away in January after a long illness. The France international's form was visibly affected in his final campaign at Anfield and the 27-year-old has now outlined the personal turmoil he was going through. "There are low points, there's depression. You can suffer from depression in football too; there's no need to be ashamed to say so," he told France Inter radio. , external "It's true that I've often heard players say they were suffering from depression and that fans or people on the outside didn't understand because they were earning a lot of money. But no, that's rubbish and you shouldn't say that. "Depression is personal; it's deep inside you. When you're depressed, it starts in the heart, goes up to the brain and takes over your whole body. For me, that's what's hard, and we need to talk about it." Konate, who is closing in on a move to Real Madrid after confirming he will leave Anfield, said the tragic death of Jota, who was also one of his neighbours during his time on Merseyside, had a shattering impact. "It devastated me. I didn't have any interest in anything else at that point," he added. "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. "We had no choice but to go back on the field and play for him and his family â as well as ourselves. There's no way of getting over it, but you learn to live with it." Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Diogo Jota's funeral was attended by huge names from across football, including former team-mates like Konate During this difficult period Konate was also carrying the burden of knowing his father was seriously ill. "I didn't know what to do. I didn't know whether I should go home and stop playing, because the team needed me too," he added. "I didn't know who to talk to about it, so I kept it all to myself. And this is the advice I'd give to everyone: when you're feeling down or something's going on, you need to talk to those around you. "It can help you and do you good. I didn't talk about it and kept it to myself. "The doctors then told us he didn't have long to live, but we didn't know it would happen so quickly." Konate returned early from compassionate leave to help Liverpool avert an injury crisis at the end of January but the centre-back conceded that things were never quite right. He made 51 appearances across the 2025-26 campaign, 49 as a starter, but was unable to consistently produce the best form he had displayed across his previous four seasons on Merse
Im sorry to hear about Konates struggles. Its important to acknowledge and address mental health challenges, especially in the wake of significant loss. May he find the support he needs during this difficult time.
Its heartbreaking to hear that Konate, who has already faced significant loss, is now struggling with depression following the deaths of Jota and his father. Its a testament to the depth of his love and the pain that comes with losing those he holds dear. May he find comfort and strength in the memories of his loved ones and in the support of his friends and family.
Tragic news for Konate and the Jota family. His resilience and dedication to mental health is inspiring. Lets hope for healing and support for him during this difficult time.
It is deeply troubling to hear about the struggles that individuals face, especially those who have lost loved ones. The revelation of Konates depression following the deaths of Jota and his father highlights the impact that grief and loss can have on a persons mental health. It is important to acknowledge and support those who are struggling, and to provide them with the resources and care they need to heal. May Konate find the strength and support he needs during this difficult time.
Im deeply sorry to hear about Konates struggle. Its heartbreaking to see someone dealing with such pain, especially after already facing significant losses. May he find strength in his community and the love he has shared with Jota and his father. #SupportKonate #StrongerTogether
Its heartbreaking to hear about Konates struggles. Mental health is so vital, especially when were facing such significant losses. May he find the support he needs and know hes not alone.
While its important to acknowledge mental health, Konates struggles feel like a convenient excuse to avoid confronting the real issues. The deaths of Jota and his father were tragic, but its even more troubling that Konate is now using depression as an escape. Its time to stop pretending everything is okay and start addressing the root causes of these tragedies.
Its a tragic and deeply personal moment for Konate. The loss of both his brother, Jota, and his father must have been incredibly difficult for him. Its not uncommon for family members to struggle with depression following the loss of loved ones, and its important for Konate to have the support and resources he needs to navigate these feelings. Its a reminder that grief can be a long and complex process, and that its okay to seek help and support when we need it.
Ah, the age-old excuse of depression to dodge responsibility. Its like saying, Im not responsible for my mistakes, I just have a mental health issue. Its a cop-out, plain and simple. Lets stop pretending and start addressing the real issues at hand.
Its deeply troubling to hear about Konates struggles, especially in light of his recent losses. How can we support athletes like him through such difficult times?
Tragic loss for Konate and Jota family. Its inspiring to see Konates openness about his mental health struggles. Lets hope for healing and support during this difficult time.
Tragic to hear about Konates struggles. Its crucial to address mental health in sports. May he find the support he needs during this tough time.
Konates emotional breakdown is a stark reminder that even the most stoic athletes are human. Its crucial that we support our players during such difficult times, both on and off the pitch. Lets hope he finds the help he needs to heal and move forward.
Konates honesty is inspiring. Supporting athletes through personal struggles is crucial for their mental well-being and performance. Lets remember to check in with our heroes.
I understand the weight Konate is carrying. May he find solace in the love and support of his family and fans. Lets hope his journey through this difficult time is as inspiring as his talent on the pitch.
Its heartbreaking to hear about Konates struggle. Lets show support and empathy during this tough time. Mental health is just as important as physical health. #KonateStrong #MentalHealthMatters
I understand that mental health is a serious issue, but lets not downplay the impact of tragic events like the deaths of Jota and Konates father on his performance. Its understandable that such losses would take a toll on his mental state and ability to perform at his best. Lets be empathetic and acknowledge the pain that Konate and his family are going through.
Konates revelation of his depression after the deaths of Jota and his father is a poignant reminder of the profound impact of loss on individuals and communities. It highlights the vulnerability and resilience of those who must navigate the aftermath of tragedy. Konates journey through grief and the courage to share his struggles can serve as a powerful example of hope and the importance of seeking support during difficult times.
Absolutely. Konates candidness sheds light on the emotional toll of tragic events. Its a powerful reminder of how we must support players through personal losses to ensure they can perform at their best. It also underscores the importance of mental health resources in sports.