Liverpool FC paid an emotional tribute to the late Diogo Jota on Monday during the club’s first home matches at Anfield since the forward’s death last month. The tributes took place before and during a pair of pre-season friendlies against Spanish side Athletic Bilbao.
Jota, 28, and his brother, Andre Silva, 25, were tragically killed in a car accident in Spain in July.
In a poignant pre-match ceremony before the first of the two games, Liverpool legend Phil Thompson and Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte laid wreaths on the pitch near the goal line. As they did, the digital advertising hoardings around the stadium displayed the message: ‘Rest in Peace Diogo Jota and Andre Silva – You’ll Never Walk Alone’.
The sentiment was shared powerfully by the supporters, who filled the stadium with renditions of Jota’s chant and held aloft banners in his memory. In a formal tribute from the club, Liverpool has retired Jota’s number 20 shirt.
During both friendlies, play was halted in the 20th minute to honour Jota’s squad number. Players, staff, and fans from both clubs joined in a minute’s applause to celebrate his life and career.
“It has been a tough time for everyone connected with the club, but especially for Diogo’s family,” manager Arne Slot wrote in his notes for the matchday programme. “We cannot imagine the pain that they have been through, and the club will continue to give them all the support they can going forward.”
Slot added, “Diogo’s passing has had a big impact on us all, but what has been so important has been the love and care shown from the football world, and in particular of course the Liverpool FC community.”
The Portugal international was a key figure for the Reds after his transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club, contributing to Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup triumphs during his tenure.
Liverpool will begin their competitive season on Sunday against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield at Wembley, before commencing their Premier League campaign at home to Bournemouth on Friday, August 15.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.