Sometimes, football is more than just a sport.
It’s about the people, the memories, and the emotional connections that are forged through shared dreams and moments.
That’s exactly what Liverpool defender Kostas Tsimikas showed the world recently, as he honoured the memory of his late teammate and close friend, Diogo Jota, in the most personal way possible — with a tattoo that says everything words can’t.
Jota’s Tragic Passing Shakes the Football Community
On July 3, a devastating car crash in northern Spain claimed the lives of Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva.
The news stunned the football world, leaving fans and teammates heartbroken.
Jota, known for his brilliance on the pitch and warmth off it, was deeply respected within the Liverpool squad.
Since the tragedy, tributes have poured in, and Liverpool made the rare and emotional decision to retire Jota’s No 20 shirt across all levels of the club after speaking with his widow and family.
Tsimikas Gets a Tattoo That Speaks Volumes
For Tsimikas, the loss wasn’t just of a teammate — it was of a brother in arms.
To keep Jota close to him forever, the Greek defender got a tattoo on his left hand.
It reads “Wish you were here” and is etched alongside Jota’s iconic No 20.
The ink was done by Puerto Ink Athens just two days after the tragic accident, on July 5.
A Message of Brotherhood and Grief
Puerto Ink Athens shared the tattoo on social media with a moving caption that struck a chord with fans.
The post read:
“Some bonds are beyond football.
This one’s forever. From teammates to brothers. From Greece to England.
From dreams to Anfield. They rose together.
They laughed, fought, worked, and lived the moments most can only dream of. Until fate decided to stop one of them far too soon.”
The message described the tattoo not just as a tribute, but as a permanent piece of memory — something that holds love, pain, and remembrance.
The post ended with a poignant: “Rest easy, Jota. You’ll never walk alone.”
Tribute on the Pitch
Tsimikas didn’t wait long to show the world the tattoo.
It was clearly visible during Liverpool’s pre-season friendly against Preston North End on July 13 — exactly ten days after Jota’s passing.
The match turned into a moving memorial.
Before kick-off, a minute’s silence was observed in Jota’s honour, followed by a powerful rendition of the club anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Preston’s captain Benjamin Whiteman carried a wreath and placed it at the away end, while both teams wore black armbands to show solidarity.
Screens around the stadium displayed digital tributes, and the matchday programme featured a touching black-and-white photo of Jota holding the Premier League trophy.
One Final Message: He’ll Never Walk Alone
Through every gesture — from the retiring of a jersey to a single tattoo inked in grief — it’s clear that Diogo Jota left a legacy far beyond football.
For Tsimikas and so many others, his spirit will always be a part of Anfield.
And whether it’s on the pitch, in ink, or in the hearts of those who knew him, Jota’s presence will never fade.