Liverpool FC have announced a series of heartfelt tributes to commemorate the lives of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva during their first pre-season fixture against Preston North End on Sunday, marking the club’s emotional return to action following the tragic loss.
The Portuguese international and his brother were killed in a fatal car accident just 11 days after Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso. The Lamborghini they were travelling in reportedly veered off the road and burst into flames.
As a mark of respect, Liverpool postponed the start of their pre-season training until Tuesday. The scheduled match at Deepdale Stadium, home of Championship side Preston, will proceed as planned at 1400 GMT and will serve as a solemn occasion to honour the fallen forward.
Tributes Planned for Matchday
Ahead of kick-off, Liverpool’s iconic anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” will be played in memory of Jota and his brother.
A minute’s silence will be observed, and Preston North End will lay a wreath in front of the away supporters.
Additionally, Players from both teams will wear black armbands. Digital tributes will be displayed on the stadium’s big screen and pitch side LED boards. Fans are expected to join in commemorating the 27-year-old, who was widely respected both on and off the pitch.
Funeral Attended by Club Officials and Teammates
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, club captain Virgil van Dijk, and several first-team players were in attendance at Jota’s funeral last Saturday in Portugal, where they paid their final respects to a player described by teammates as “fiercely talented and deeply humble.”
Jota made 124 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 44 goals and winning the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Community Shield during his four years at Anfield.
Sunday’s match promises to be a powerful moment of unity and remembrance, as the football world continues to mourn one of its brightest stars.
