Arne Slot has praised the "powerful" tribute to Diogo Jota during Liverpool's Premier League opening match against Bournemouth, acknowledging the emotional toll on the players. The Portugal striker tragically passed away in a car accident six weeks prior, along with his brother Andre Silva. Jota's family were present at Anfield to witness the emotional outpouring, which reportedly left Mohamed Salah in tears at the final whistle.
Slot, in his first season as Liverpool's manager, expressed how impressed he was with the tribute to Jota. He noted the impact of the pre-game minute of silence and the crowd mosaic, as well as the powerful rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone". In the 20th minute, fans sang Jota's song. Slot told Sky Sports that the way the fans showed respect for Diogo and his brother was incredible. He told NBC that he has heard "You'll Never Walk Alone" many times, but the way it was sung at the game was so powerful.
Slot reflected on the difficulty of dealing with Jota's absence, both on and off the pitch. He emphasized Jota's qualities as a person, describing him as a good husband and an incredible father. Slot added that Jota was always himself, which is why players liked him. He acknowledged the challenge for the team to navigate their grief while preparing for the new season. Slot told Sky Sports that the first time they arrive for a session, the first time they play a game and the first time after 20 minutes when the fans sing his song are all difficult.
Liverpool won the match 4-2, though Slot admitted that he missed having Jota as an option during the game. With the match level at 2-2, Slot said he would have loved to bring Jota in, but he couldn't for terrible reasons. He said that the fans and players did what Jota had done many times in the past. Slot lauded the fans for helping the team turn the game around. He stated that normally 20 minutes from the end when it was 2-2, the first person he would look to is Diogo. Slot also said that he told the players to act like Diogo, who was always good with everyone, accepting everyone for the person they were.
Despite the emotional circumstances, Slot was pleased with how his players managed the game. He acknowledged Bournemouth's fitness and tempo, expressing concern about securing a win. Slot said that they have lost many players this summer, but they did not lose their mentality. Ultimately, goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah secured the victory for Liverpool.
