Arne Slot's special message as Liverpool gear up for new season without Diogo Jota

India Today

17 hours ago

The new Premier League campaign will begin under a cloud of deep sadness for Liverpool and the wider football community. The memory of Diogo Jota will be inescapable when the first whistle blows this weekend, just weeks after the forward's tragic death in a car accident in Spain alongside his brother, Andre Silva.Jota's loss will be felt far beyond the statistics that defined his career. Renowned for his goals, movement and tireless pressing, he was equally admired for his humility, professionalism and warmth away from the pitch.advertisementLiverpool head coach Arne Slot reflected on Jota's significance to club, country and family.
"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."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."Jurgen Klopp, who signed Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and oversaw his development into a key figure in Liverpool's attack, also paid tribute."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."The Premier League confirmed that all fixtures in the opening round will feature a minute's silence in memory of Jota and his brother. Players across all clubs will wear black armbands, and tributes will be displayed on stadium screens.A first public tribute was held at Wembley Stadium during last Sunday's Community Shield between Liverpool and Crystal Palace. Wreaths were placed on the pitch and a period of silence was observed before kick-off, although the moment was briefly disrupted by a small number of Palace fans - a disturbance criticised by many, including fellow supporters who acted to restore respect.As Liverpool prepare to begin the season without one of their most influential and respected players, Jota's legacy - on and off the field - will remain embedded in the club's history and in the memories of supporters worldwide.- EndsTrending Reel