The memory of Jota, a key player on the team that won Liverpool’s Premier League last season and a much-loved member of the team, was praised by both players, staff and fans as the Reds rounded out pre-season preparations with two friendly games with the athletic club.
The experimental aspect of the younger generation, 4-1 in the first match, 16-year-old sensation Rio Nugumo was once again moved with another great goal before Cody Gakupo’s braces and Mohamed Sara Strike sealed off the 3-2 victory of manager Arneslot’s first choice side.
Liverpool legend Phil Thompson and Athletic Club president John Uriate laid out wreaths on the pitch, while tributes were paid before kickoff, with fans at the stadium hugging Jota’s name-named banners, scarves and shirts.
The message “Lest in Peace Diogo Jota and Andre Silva – You’ll never walk alone” appeared on the big screen as fans sang Jota’s name.
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Former Liverpool player Phil Thompson and Bilbao President John Uriate head out to Ally Reess in honor of Liverpool’s late Portuguese striker #20 Diogo Jota.
Image credits: Getty Images
The first game was then stopped in 20 minutes. Jota was wearing 20th place. Fans, staff and players applauded.
Club captain Virgil Van Dick wrote about Jota in a note on the match program, explaining how the team tried to digest the loss.
“First and foremost, for Diogo and Andre’s family, Root and the kids. They are always the people who have to come first to all of this, and we should never forget that.
“To be honest, it’s still a bit surreal, but as a team we’re dealing with it in the best possible way. We’re all trying to do the best we can to get through this really difficult time.
“Everything that happened was odd that we had to try and continue working with football and work. Of course, we never forget Diogo, but we just try to respect his memory, and that’s what we’re trying to do every day.
“I’m always coming back to the fact that I have to look after Diogo’s family, his parents. That’s the main thing. You’re thinking so many different things and it’s difficult to deal with. You can’t imagine the pain, the feeling they have. So we try to be as much as possible.
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Fans will hold a message of customs commemorating Diogo Jota and Andre Silva
Image credits: Getty Images
“That’s because, not just now and the next few months, but as far as possible, that’s what he deserves.
“But we are all together. We all have to go through this together. We will. We will honor Diogo today and in the future. He will always be with us.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also wrote about the former players in the program and spoke directly to supporters.
“I know I want to pay your tribute before, during, and after the game, and I know I’ll hear his songs ring throughout the evening,” Slot said.
“It was a tough time for everyone connected to the club, especially for Diogo’s family, wife, children and friends.
“We can’t imagine the pain they’ve been going through, and the club will continue to give them all the support they have in the future.
“Diogo’s death had a huge impact on us all, but what was so important was the love and care shown by the world of football, especially the Liverpool FC community.”
Doublehead concludes Liverpool’s friendly pre-season schedule, with the 2025/26 season approaching.
On Sunday, August 10th, Community Shield’s Slot Side Face Crystal Palace.
Five days later, on Friday, August 15th, they begin their Premier League title defense at their home in Bournemouth.
