Liverpool FC To Honour Diogo Jota’s Legacy With Heartfelt Gesture.
Liverpool Football Club has announced a poignant decision to pay the remaining two years of Diogo Jota’s contract to his family, following the tragic passing of the beloved Portuguese forward and his brother, André Silva, in a car accident in Spain on 3 July 2025. The gesture, confirmed by Portuguese outlet Record, has been widely praised as a testament to the club’s values and its deep respect for Jota’s contributions both on and off the pitch.
Jota, who signed a five-year contract extension with Liverpool in 2022, was earning an estimated £140,000 per week, amounting to approximately £14.5 million over the remaining two years of his deal. The club’s commitment to fulfilling this contract ensures financial security for Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, and their three young children during an unimaginably difficult time. The couple had married just two weeks prior to the tragedy, on 22 June 2025, adding to the heartbreak felt across the footballing world.
The 28-year-old forward, who joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 for £41 million, made 182 appearances for the Reds, scoring 65 goals and providing 26 assists. His versatility, work rate, and clinical finishing were instrumental in Liverpool’s successes, including the Premier League title in the 2024-25 season, an FA Cup, and two EFL Cups. Beyond his on-field exploits, Jota was known for his kind and generous nature, exemplified by his decision to waive a rental contract with teammate Luis Díaz when the latter joined Liverpool, a gesture that highlighted his character.
Liverpool’s decision to honour Jota’s contract has been met with widespread admiration. The club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, acted swiftly to provide this support, reinforcing Liverpool’s motto, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” Fans and players alike have rallied to pay tribute, with thousands flocking to Anfield to leave flowers, scarves, and shirts at a memorial site. The club has also opened a book of condolence and is discussing a permanent tribute to Jota, with suggestions to retire his number 20 shirt in recognition of his legacy.
On 5 July, Jota and his brother were laid to rest in their hometown of Gondomar, Portugal, with Liverpool’s current squad, including captain Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, and manager Arne Slot, attending the funeral alongside former teammates like Jordan Henderson and James Milner. Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with figures such as Mohamed Salah, Jürgen Klopp, and even Prince William expressing their grief. During a concert in Cardiff on 4 July, the band Oasis paused to display Jota’s image, while Icelandic singer Laufey performed “You’ll Never Walk Alone” in Liverpool.
Manager Arne Slot spoke emotionally, saying, “My thoughts are with Diogo’s family. We will play for him, and his spirit will live on at Anfield.” The club’s CEO of football, Michael Edwards, and sporting director, Richard Hughes, added, “This tragedy transcends football. We will honour our beloved number 20 with the respect he deserves.”
As Liverpool prepare for the new season, the club’s gesture underscores its commitment to compassion and community. Jota’s memory will undoubtedly inspire the squad and supporters, ensuring his legacy endures at Anfield and beyond.
