Liverpool’s stadium was filled with emotion as the club paid a heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva ahead of two back-to-back friendlies against Athletic Bilbao.
The matches marked the Reds’ first games at Anfield since the tragic car accident in northern Spain last month that claimed the lives of the two siblings.
Remembering Jota and Silva Before the Game
Jota’s passing was especially poignant as it came just two weeks after he married his childhood sweetheart, Rute.
The loss shook the Liverpool community deeply, and the club made sure to honor both brothers with dignity and respect.
Before kickoff, Liverpool legend Phil Thompson and Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte laid wreaths at the edge of the pitch, right in front of the passionate Kop supporters.
The stadium billboards carried the touching message: “Rest in peace Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Fans joined together to chant Jota’s name, creating a moving atmosphere of remembrance that echoed through the stands.
A Moment of Silence and Shared Respect
In the 20th minute of the match, a minute’s applause was held in tribute to Jota’s shirt number.
Both teams and fans stood together, holding up flags and banners to remember the young forward.
It was a powerful moment of unity and respect across the football community.
Brief Evacuation Amid False Alarm
Just minutes before the first match was due to kick off, there was a sudden evacuation of part of Anfield’s Main Stand following a false alarm.
Many supporters who had already taken their seats were asked to leave the area temporarily.
Thankfully, the club quickly confirmed it was a precautionary measure and allowed fans back inside without any delay to the match.
Liverpool issued a statement saying: “Fans are now being let back into the Main Stand and there is no expected delay to kickoff.
Thank you for everyone’s cooperation.”
Emotional Tributes in the Matchday Programme and From the Manager
The official matchday programme featured a cover dedicated entirely to Jota, showcasing images of his celebrations and the words, “Diogo Jota, forever our number 20.”
Inside, heartfelt tributes filled the pages, including a moving obituary titled “Forever our No 20.”
Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot also shared his thoughts: “I know that you will want to pay your tributes before, during and after the games, and I know that we will hear his song ringing out throughout the evening.
It has been a tough time for everyone connected with the club, but especially for Diogo’s family, his wife, his children, and friends.
We cannot imagine the pain that they have been going through, and the club will continue to give them all the support they can going forward.”
Slot added praise for his players, recognizing the emotional challenge they faced: “I want to mention the strength and the courage of my players here, too.
They have found themselves in one of the toughest positions imaginable.”
Forever 20: A Lasting Tribute Worn With Pride
Liverpool also introduced a “Forever 20” emblem on their kits, first worn in the matches against Athletic Bilbao.
This tribute will remain on the team’s jerseys throughout the season, a constant reminder of Jota’s legacy.
Plans for a Permanent Memorial at Anfield
The club is planning a permanent memorial sculpture to honor Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at Anfield.
Floral wreaths will be laid ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth on August 15, where a minute’s silence will also be observed to pay further respects.
Remembering a Liverpool Legend
Since joining Liverpool from Wolves in 2020, Jota made an unforgettable impact, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances.
His contributions helped the club win major trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.
Though his time with the Reds was tragically cut short, his memory continues to inspire the team and fans alike.
