Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, has responded to the disruption caused by some Crystal Palace fans during the pre-game tribute to Diogo Jota at the FA Community Shield held at Wembley. The match, which marks the official commencement of the English football season, included a minute of silence to honor Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July.
The silence was marred by a section of Palace supporters in the east end, where they were seated, who booed and shouted, interrupting the tribute. This prompted a strong reaction from Liverpool fans and other Palace supporters who attempted to quiet the disruptive individuals. Despite the disturbance, Arne Slot believes that the fans did not intend to cause offense.
Slot suggested that the interruption was more accidental than deliberate. He proposed that the fan or fans making noise might not have been aware of the minute of silence, explaining, "Maybe he wasn't aware of the fact that it was the minute of silence,". Slot added, "He was just still happy and tried to cheer for his team. And I think then the fans of Palace were trying to calm that person or those persons down, so I don't think he had a bad intention, the guy or people that made noise".
Slot further elaborated that any attempts to quiet the individual were also noisy, which then provoked a reaction from Liverpool fans. However, he reiterated his belief that "the fans of Crystal Palace and everywhere around the world have paid huge respect to Diogo and Andre and this was, I think, unlucky or, I can't find the right words, but I don't think there was a bad intention in it".
The Liverpool manager stated he would closely monitor future tributes for any disruptions, especially during the home opener against Bournemouth on Friday, August 15. Slot acknowledged the timing of the tribute, noting that five weeks had passed since the tragic event, which may have contributed to a fan momentarily forgetting the solemnity of the occasion. He said, "It's also five weeks ago, so that's why maybe this fan who was just so happy for them to be in the Community Shield that he forgot in a second".
Before the Community Shield, Slot conveyed his sentiments to the FA website, stating, "This summer has been difficult for everybody connected with the club,”. He emphasized the profound impact of Diogo Jota's passing and the club's commitment to supporting Jota's family. "We will always carry Diogo with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go,” Slot affirmed.
The incident occurred after tributes were paid to Jota, including wreaths laid on the pitch, and before the match that saw Crystal Palace defeat Liverpool in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. Liverpool fans displayed a banner showing Jota holding the Premier League trophy, bearing his number 20, which the club has since retired. Jota's death occurred only 11 days after his marriage to Rute Cardoso, leaving behind his wife and three children.
