Liverpool boss on his final conversation with Jota

Liverpool manager Arne Slot recalled his last discussion with Diogo Jota, noting that he congratulated him on Portugal’s Nations League triumph and his upcoming wedding.

Earlier, it was reported that Diogo Jota and his brother, Penafiel player André Silva, died in a car accident in northwestern Spain.

“It’s hard to find words at times like this. What can you say to ease the sorrow and grief? I can only speak from the heart about a person and player we loved so much. Please understand my words not as a manager’s, but as a father’s, son’s, brother’s, friend’s, or relative’s. The Jota and Silva family has suffered unimaginable loss.

My conviction is clear: you will never be alone. Everyone at Liverpool — players, staff, and fans — stands with you. What I’ve witnessed shows that the football family extends far beyond the club.

This is a shock for all of us. Diogo wasn’t just a player. He was a dear person to all — a loyal teammate and caring colleague.

I could speak for hours about what he contributed to our team. But everyone who watched him play saw it — hard work, drive, dedication, skill, and goals reflected what a Liverpool player should be.

There were qualities many didn’t see. He never sought fame, yet it found him. He was everyone’s friend, someone who cared for family responsibly.

The last time we spoke, I congratulated him on the Nations League win and wished him a joyful wedding. This summer was meant to be happy for him and his family, but it ended in tragedy.

One of the songs I remembered when I first arrived at the club was one sung by the fans for Diogo. Though I’d never worked with him before, if fans who’d seen many great players are singing about him, it means he was special.

It will be hard to cope without those qualities. That’s why now we must stand united and support one another.

My condolences to his wife Rute, their three children, and the parents of Diogo and André.

We will remember his goals and sing our song for him. But above all, we will remember him as a person. He will remain forever in our hearts. He will not be forgotten. His name — Diogo,” said Slot. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!