Liverpool boss Arne Slot spoke after his respect for Diogo Jota at Wembley was hampered.
Arne Slot believes there is no malicious intention from the Crystal Palace minority who interrupted the momentary silence held in commemoration of Diego Jota. Wembley paid tribute to the late Liverpool star prior to the Community Shield, but saw that the moment’s silence came at the premature end following the crowd’s disturbance.
Jota, 28, tragically passed away along with his younger brother Andre Silva after a car accident in Spain. Liverpool’s return to competitive action on Sunday was the first time the Reds have played a game on the line with anything since Jota passed away.
A tribute was made before the match, with the banner holding the Premier League trophy holding the shirt number 20 in place, and silence was set before kickoff. However, when a few palace fans heard the noise, Liverpool supporters booed angrily, and judge Chris Kabanag chose to shorten the micro.
TNT sports commentator Darren Fletcher mentioned the incident, saying, “Why are there more than me, some stadiums on Earth ruining that moment?”
However, while Liverpool’s boss slot was more tolerant, the Dutch suggested that it was all likely a result of misunderstanding.
“I don’t think this is planned,” Slot said. “The fans may have been unaware of the silence of the moment, they were happy and tried to cheer for his team, and the palace fans tried to calm him down and our fans responded.
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“I’m a positive person. I see the respect paid to Diogo and Andre all over the world.”
Prior to the game, Slot acknowledged the difficult summer his team endured after Jota’s death. The Dutch coach praised his side and love, poured into him as a result of the tragedy.
“This summer has been difficult for everyone who connects with the club,” he said. “The passing of Diogo Jota has had a huge impact on us all and is something we still agree with.
“I can’t imagine the pain that Diogo’s family, his wife, children and friends are experiencing. 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’s very important was the love and care shown by the world of football, especially the Liverpool FC community.
“I would also like to mention the strength and courage of the players here. I’ve found them in one of the toughest positions I can imagine, but the way they came together and the way they led themselves is a credit to them and this football club.
“We really couldn’t have asked the boys more. I’m very proud of them all.”
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