Liverpool returned to Anfield for the first time since the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, with an emotional tribute to the forward taking centre stage during Monday’s pre-season friendlies against Athletic Bilbao.
Jota, 28, died in a car crash in Spain in July alongside his younger brother, André Silva. The news sent shockwaves through the football world and left the Liverpool community in mourning.
As the Reds hosted a double-header against the La Liga side, the mood was sombre but unified. Liverpool icon Phil Thompson and Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte laid wreaths at the edge of the six-yard box ahead of kick-off in the first match. Around the ground, digital boards displayed the message: “Rest in Peace Diogo Jota and André Silva – You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Supporters held banners and waved flags bearing Jota’s name and shirt number, while fans inside Anfield sang in tribute throughout the evening. The number 20 shirt, worn proudly by Jota during his time at the club, has now been officially retired.
In a powerful moment during the first match, play paused in the 20th minute as players, staff, and fans stood in applause to honour Jota’s memory.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves and scored 65 goals in 182 appearances. During his time at the club, he helped the Reds lift the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, establishing himself as a key figure in one of the club’s most competitive eras.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the occasion in his programme notes.
“We will always carry him with us – in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go,” Slot wrote. “It has been a tough time for everyone connected with the club, but especially for Diogo’s family, his wife, his children, and his friends. The support shown by the football world – and especially this community – has been incredible.”
The tribute came just days before Liverpool’s next test, as they prepare to face Crystal Palace in the Community Shield at Wembley on 10 August. They then kick off their Premier League campaign against Bournemouth at Anfield on 15 August.
For now, though, the focus was on remembering a teammate, a family man, and a footballer who gave everything in red.
