In a touching display of grief and remembrance, Liverpool fans have begun leaving flowers and heartfelt tributes outside Anfield Stadium following the tragic death of Diogo Jota. The Liverpool forward, aged 28, died in a car crash in Spain alongside his brother, Andre Silva. News of the accident has sent shockwaves through the football world, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and fans alike.
Liverpool Football Club released a statement expressing their devastation at the loss of Jota, acknowledging the "unimaginable loss" and requesting privacy for his family, friends, teammates, and club staff during this difficult time. The flag at Liverpool Town Hall has been lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect.
Outside Anfield, a sea of flowers, scarves, and messages has formed as fans gather to pay their respects. Many messages quote the club's chant for the forward, "Ooooh he wears the number 20. RIP Diogo YNWA. Forever Red". Another poignant message simply read, "RIP Diogo". These tributes underscore the deep connection Jota had forged with the Liverpool faithful during his time at the club. Sky News reported that fans are "devastated" by the news, with many adoring him.
Jota, who joined Liverpool in the summer of 2020, quickly became a fan favorite at Anfield. Known for his exceptional finishing and relentless work rate, he played a key role in Liverpool's successes, including the 2024-25 Premier League title, the 2021-22 FA Cup triumph, and two Carabao Cup wins in 2021-22 and 2023-24. In total, Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool, providing 26 assists.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Jota was admired for his humility and dedication. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shared his thoughts and prayers with Jota's family, saying, "there must be a bigger purpose but I can't see it". Cristiano Ronaldo, a teammate of Jota's on the Portuguese national team, expressed his disbelief, stating that the death "doesn't make sense" and adding, "We will all miss you".
Tributes have also come from across the footballing community. FC Porto, where Jota spent a loan spell in 2016-17, expressed their "shock and deep sorrow". Former Wolves teammate Ruben Neves posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, "They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!". Other clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton, Manchester City and Everton, have also offered their condolences. UEFA has requested a minute of silence be observed before the National Team's match against Spain in the Women's European Championship. Wimbledon has also allowed players to wear black armbands in tribute.
The Portuguese Football Federation mourned the loss of "two champions," referring to Diogo and his brother Andre. They described Jota as an "extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents, someone with an infectious joy and a reference in the community itself". Portugal's Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, conveyed his "deepest condolences" to the family, calling it "a sad day for football and for national and international sports".
Diogo Jota's death is a profound loss for Liverpool Football Club and the wider football community. The outpouring of grief and the tributes at Anfield serve as a testament to the impact he had on and off the pitch. He had just married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, in Porto, Portugal, 11 days prior to the tragic accident.
