In the wake of the devastating death of striker Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, Liverpool have confirmed their first-team squad will reconvene for pre-season training on Tuesday, July 8, at the AXA Training Centre.
Players were initially expected back in smaller groups on July 4 and 7, but the schedule was paused to allow the squad to mourn their friend and colleague.
On July 3, tragedy struck when Jota, 28, and his 25-year-old brother André Silva were killed in a car accident near Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain.
They were reportedly driving to Santander to catch a ferry back to the UK — Jota had recently undergone minor lung surgery and was advised against flying.
According to the Spanish Civil Guard, their Lamborghini suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking, veering off the A‑52 motorway and bursting into flames, killing both instantly.
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Liverpool mourn Jota: tears, tributes, farewell
A heartfelt funeral was held on July 5 in Gondomar, Portugal, attended by Liverpool manager Arne Slot, captain Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, Harvey Elliott, Wataru Endo, Darwin Nunez, Ryan Gravenberch, Federico Chiesa, and staff.
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martínez, former players, and close friends—like Rúben Neves, who served as a pallbearer — were also present. The ceremony took place in the same church where Jota had been married just under two weeks earlier.
Former Liverpool players Caoimhin Kelleher, Jordan Henderson, and James Milner also attended
On social media and at matches across Europe, Jota was remembered for his infectious energy, humility, and intelligence, leaving behind his wife Rute Cardoso and their three children. Cristiano Ronaldo and other stars offered emotional tributes.
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Friendly against Preston under review
Liverpool’s scheduled friendly against Preston North End on Sunday, July 13, at Deepdale remains undecided.
The club has stated that confirmation will follow consultations with the squad and staff once they return to training—preparations will include tributes to honour Jota, should the fixture proceed.
Preston, preparing for this as their sole summer home match, are in close contact with Liverpool and are arranging commemorations at Deepdale.
In this time of collective grief, manager Arne Slot is asking for understanding and patience, emphasising that the team’s emotional readiness will determine the fate of upcoming fixtures.
As the squad comes together on July 8, Liverpool supporters — locally and globally — remain united in strength and remembrance, carrying forward Jota’s spirit both on and off the field.
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