Liverpool Stars Rally Around Diogo Jota as Club Mourns Devastating Personal Loss
Liverpool have expressed they are "finding it difficult to process" the unexpected passing of Diogo Jota following a vehicular collision in Spain, establishing both physical and digital memorial books for fans to honor the departed 28-year-old.
Jota lost his life in an automobile crash along with his sibling André in the early morning hours of Thursday, prompting the football community to unite in paying respects to the Premier League and UEFA Nations League champion.
Liverpool promptly installed a tribute mural for Jota and has now announced that supporters can contribute to several memorial books to demonstrate their continued solidarity with the Portuguese player's family. Physical memorial books will be available at Anfield throughout the week for fans to sign, while those unable to visit can access a digital version online.
A declaration from Michael Edwards, chief executive of football, and Richard Hughes, the club's sporting director, stated: "No words can diminish the anguish of such a catastrophic loss. We are all completely devastated at this moment.
"In these heartbreaking times, it is our duty to recognize the shared sorrow we are enduring, to honor our Diogo, and to provide steadfast support to his family who remain our utmost concern right now.
"Diogo's spouse, Rute, their three precious children, his parents and extended family are confronting an incomprehensible tragedy. This fatal accident has claimed not only Diogo, but his brother Andre Silva as well. We grieve for both equally. We must honor the family's need for privacy and allow them space to mourn as they see fit.
"Naturally, we – his Liverpool family – are also finding it difficult to process what has occurred. As his teammates, friends and colleagues, we are overwhelmed by disbelief and grief. We understand our supporters, his national squad, former teams and teammates, and the broader football world share in this mourning. This is a catastrophe that extends beyond Liverpool Football Club.
"In the upcoming days, we as an organization will seek to commemorate our cherished number 20 with the dignity and love he truly earned. We will endeavor to make these tributes significant and welcoming to our supporters, for whom Diogo held great importance.
"For the present, we convey affection that is heavy with profound sadness and anguish. We have lost someone genuinely irreplaceable.
"Rest in peace, Diogo.