‘Diogo Jota had natural intelligence on the pitch': Klopp pays tribute as PL clubs remember a footballer par excellence
Speaking on JioHotstar's special program, 'Preview of the Season 2025–26,' Liverpool manager Arne Slot and former boss Jürgen Klopp reflected on Jota's enduring legacy.
'He Changed the Dynamics': Klopp
Jurgen Klopp, who brought Jota to Anfield in 2020 and oversaw his rise into a key figure in Liverpool's attack, spoke with visible emotion about the Portuguese international's influence.
'Diogo was an incredibly important player for us,' Klopp said. 'Having him in the side changed the dynamics. He had this natural intelligence on the pitch — he found spaces, created chaos for defenders, and scored goals that mattered. But beyond all that, he was someone who always gave everything for the badge.'
Klopp, whose deep emotional bond with his players defined his time at Liverpool, was among the first to publicly pay tribute to Jota after the tragic news broke in July.
'He Was a Champion in Every Sense': Slot
Current Liverpool head coach Arne Slot also spoke about Jota's wide-reaching impact — not only as a player who helped Liverpool win the Premier League last season but as a person who embodied humility and resilience.
'He was a champion for his family, which is the most important thing,' Slot said. 'He was a champion for his country, winning the Nations League for Portugal — a nation he loved deeply. And he was a champion for us by helping win the Premier League. That title was not possible without his goals, his work rate, and his example.'
Slot also offered warm words to Jota's family, saying, 'His parents and Rute [Jota's wife, Rute Cardoso] can be extremely proud of the player and the person he was. He always stayed true to himself. They should — and will — be very proud.'
Premier League to Honour Jota and His Brother
The Premier League confirmed that all teams will observe a minute's silence during the first round of matches this weekend as part of a coordinated effort to honour Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
Players across all clubs will wear black armbands as a mark of respect. Imagery and messages honouring the brothers will also be displayed on stadium screens. The league has worked closely with Liverpool to ensure the tribute is both appropriate and meaningful.
A first public tribute was held during last Sunday's Community Shield between Liverpool and Crystal Palace at Wembley. A period of silence was observed before kickoff, and wreaths were laid on the pitch in memory of the brothers. Unfortunately, a brief disturbance by a minority of Palace fans drew criticism — including from fellow Palace supporters who made efforts to restore the silence and show respect.
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