Jurgen Klopp pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota as Liverpool star dies in car crash
Jürgen Klopp has spoken out after Liverpool confirmed the death of Diogo Jota.
The 28-year-old Anfield star was killed in a car crash alongside his brother Andre Silva in a tragic accident in Spain.
The news has left the football world in shock, and several ex-Liverpool stars such as Phil Thompson and John Aldridge have already paid tribute.
Klopp sends Jota tribute after Liverpool star death confirmed
Klopp was in charge when Jota joined Liverpool in 2020, and the Portugal star played a huge part in several trophy wins under the German.
The legendary manager took to Instagram (3 July) to pay tribute to the Reds’ number 20, saying: “This is a moment where I struggle. There must be a bigger purpose. But I can’t see it.
“I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother André.
“Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father.
We will miss you so much.
“All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them. Rest in peace.”
Liverpool will make sure Jota is never forgotten
Jota formed a special connection with Liverpool supporters; his song was one of the most regularly sung around the terraces.
The Portuguese ace scored 65 goals in 182 matches for the Merseysiders, and he notched six goals in the Premier League title-winning campaign last season.
His last ever goal for the Reds, against local rivals Everton in April, sums up exactly why he was so loved as he refused to give up, bundled past defenders and cooly finished past the onrushing Jordan Pickford.
His tenacity and determination endeared him to the fans, but it was not just his on-pitch antics that led to him being one of the most popular members of the squad, as his support for the Women’s game and mental health initiatives summed up the kind of person that he was.
Football is insignificant in moments like this; his wife and young family must be supported by the club and its supporters.
He will never be forgotten, his chant will be sung around Anfield for years to come, and he will be honoured for everything he did on and off the pitch.
There have been suggestions that his number should be retired by the club, which would be a fitting gesture as he was a pivotal part in title number 20, wearing number 20 on his back and encompassing what it means to be a Liverpool player.
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