Tributes have been placed outside Anfield for Diogo Jota
Liverpool players have resumed pre-season training following the devastating death of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car crash. The tragedy, which delayed the team’s return, has left a profound impact across the club and football community.
Liverpool Resume Training as Club Mourns Diogo Jota Tragedy
Liverpool’s pre-season has resumed under a cloud of sorrow, as players and staff return to Melwood following the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother Andre Silva. The club’s preparations for the 2025/26 campaign were put on hold last week out of respect, with Jota’s sudden passing leaving a deep emotional mark across the football world.
The 28-year-old Portuguese international was returning to Merseyside when the fatal car crash occurred. Due to recent minor surgery, Jota had been advised against flying and opted to travel by car and ferry. The accident also claimed the life of his 25-year-old brother, Andre Silva, a fellow professional footballer.
Liverpool had initially scheduled the first group of returning players for pre-season last Friday, but plans were suspended in the wake of the tragedy. Instead, a delegation from the club—including teammates, coaching staff, and senior figures—travelled to Portugal to attend the public wake held in Gondomar. The funeral took place on Saturday, where captain Virgil van Dijk and defender Andy Robertson were seen laying floral tributes alongside manager Arne Slot, who joined the team in paying their final respects.
Jota’s impact at Liverpool since his 2020 move from Wolves has been profound, both on and off the pitch. Known for his tireless work ethic, clinical finishing, and versatility across the front line, he became a fan favourite at Anfield. His absence will be deeply felt—not just as a player, but as a person.
Respects have been paid to Jota outside Liverpool’s training ground
In the days since the accident, tributes have poured in from around the world. Outside Anfield, supporters have created a growing memorial filled with scarves, flowers, and personal messages. Liverpool Women players Grace Fisk and Gemma Bonner added to the tributes on behalf of their team earlier this week. Similar displays have appeared at the club’s Kirkby training ground, and also at Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Molineux Stadium, where Jota made his name in the Premier League.
In Gondomar, the academy that bears his name has also become a focal point of mourning. A large mural featuring Jota in both Portugal and Gondomar colours stands outside, a powerful image of the journey that took him from a local talent to an international star. It’s here that his love for football was born, and where that journey was tragically cut short.
While grief still lingers, the squad has now turned its focus back to football. Liverpool’s first pre-season fixture under new manager Arne Slot will be against Preston North End on Sunday, July 13, at Deepdale. Slot, tasked with guiding the club into a new era, faces an emotionally challenging start as he helps players regroup after the loss of a teammate.
The tragedy has served as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility, even in the high-stakes world of elite sport. For Liverpool, the road ahead will carry the memory of Diogo Jota, a player whose dedication and humility earned him universal admiration. His legacy will remain etched in the club’s fabric—not only in goals and performances, but in the quiet leadership and grace he brought to the dressing room.
As the Reds return to work, Jota’s absence will be impossible to ignore. But in moving forward, they’ll carry his spirit with them—on the pitch, in the stands, and in every moment that defines this new chapter.
