Liverpool’s Premier League curtain-raiser against Bournemouth on Friday night turned into a deeply emotional tribute for Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in July.
The match, which ended in a 4-2 victory for Liverpool, saw fans and players unite in heartfelt remembrance at a packed Anfield.
The evening was punctuated by tears from Mohamed Salah, who wrapped up the scoring in stoppage time and paid homage to his late teammate with Jota’s iconic “crocodile” celebration.
Other players, including Hugo Ekitike, Cody Gakpo, and Federico Chiesa, honored Jota by signing the retired No. 20 shirt—his number at the club.
Fans and Players Join in Tributes
From the first whistle, it was clear this was more than just a football match.
Fans belted out a stirring rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, waving flags bearing Jota’s image.
A moment of silence was observed, and a stunning green, red, and white mosaic in the Kop read “DJ20”, with players gathering in the center circle for a poignant huddle.
Banners also extended messages to Jota’s family, including one that read: “Rute, Dinis, Duarte, Mafalda – Anfield will always be your home, You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
The tributes reflected the impact of Jota’s career, which had seen him achieve Premier League glory with Liverpool and a Nations League win with Portugal.
Remembering Jota’s Life and Legacy
Diogo Jota, who married his childhood sweetheart just 11 days before his passing, had a five-season career at Liverpool marked by both team and personal success.
His No. 20 shirt has been officially retired, a first in the club’s history, and a permanent sculpture outside Anfield will stand as a lasting memorial, created from tributes left by supporters.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged the emotional nature of the occasion in the matchday program:
“We know this will be a very emotional occasion, given it is the first league game since we lost Diogo and Andre.
The tributes that have been paid throughout the football world, and especially within the LFC community, have been truly special.
It is important that we show Diogo’s family our love and support as they deal with this tragic situation.”
Club and League-Wide Honors
Before the match, Sky Sports aired a touching montage celebrating Jota’s career.
Every Premier League club will hold a minute’s silence this weekend, and players will wear black armbands in remembrance.
Jota’s former club, Wolves, is also planning a tribute when they host Manchester City at Molineux, while Chelsea pledged a share of their Club World Cup bonuses—worth around £400,000—to Jota and Silva’s family.
Liverpool’s CEO of Football, Michael Edwards, reflected on the significance of retiring the No. 20 shirt:
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal—never to be forgotten.
Diogo joined us in 2020, he wore it with honor, distinction, and affection. He will forever be our number 20.”
The match against Bournemouth was more than a win on the pitch; it was a powerful celebration of life, legacy, and the unbreakable bond between players, fans, and the football community.
