Liverpool boss Arne Slot pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota
What's the story
Liverpool FC's head coach, Arne Slot, has paid an emotional tribute to the late Diogo Jota. The Portuguese international and his brother Andre Silva were confirmed dead on Thursday morning. In his statement, Slot expressed his deep sorrow and shared memories of Jota as a beloved player and teammate. He emphasized that the loss is not just felt by the club but also by the wider football community.
Condolences
Liverpool will stand by Jota's family, says Slot
Slot extended his condolences to Jota's wife, Rute, their three children, and their parents. He said, "My message to them is very clear - you will never walk alone." The Liverpool boss promised that the club's players, staff, and supporters would stand by Jota's family during this difficult time. He also highlighted the respect and admiration that people had for Jota as an individual and his family as a whole.
Legacy
Everyone who watched Diogo play could see it: Slot
Reflecting on Jota's contribution to the team, Slot said, "I could say so much about what he brought to our team but the truth is everyone who watched Diogo play could see it." He described Jota as a hard-working player with great commitment and quality who embodied what a Liverpool player should be. The manager also spoke about the personal side of Jota that not everyone got to see.
Final words
It was a dream summer for Diogo, says Slot
Slot recalled his last conversation with Jota where he congratulated him on winning the Nations League and wished him luck for his upcoming wedding. He said, "In many ways, it was a dream summer for Diogo and his family, which makes it all the more heartbreaking that it should end like this." The manager also spoke about how Liverpool fans had a unique chant for Jota, indicating his special qualities as a player.
Statement
Liverpool FC directors issue statement
In another statement released by Liverpool FC, chief executive of football Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes said "there is nothing that we can say in this moment to ease the pain of such a devastating tragedy." They added that "it is our responsibility to acknowledge the collective grief we are experiencing, to pay tribute to our Diogo." His family are the "absolute priority", the statement said, as they are "facing an unimaginable loss."