Liverpool have taken a big step to honour Diogo Jota in a way that goes beyond the pitch.
In a gesture that speaks louder than any applause at Anfield, the club has decided to pay the remaining two years of Jota’s contract to his family (via Record).
Jota, just 28, died alongside his younger brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident in northern Spain last week.
The news hit the football world like a thunderbolt, leaving fans, teammates, and rivals equally stunned.
As tributes flooded in, the club acted swiftly and thoughtfully to ensure his family would be supported during this unthinkable time.
He had only recently married his longtime partner, Rute, on June 22. Together, they shared three young children, all born during his time at Liverpool.
The decision to honour his deal isn’t just a financial one — it’s a reflection of how deeply connected the club felt to their No. 20.
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How Diogo Jota’s contract become a commitment of care?
Liverpool signed Jota from Wolves in 2020, and he quickly became a key figure. In 2022, the club extended his contract until 2027.
Now, though he will never wear the red shirt again, Liverpool are ensuring his presence remains in spirit — and in support for his family.
In a joint statement, Liverpool executives Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes said: “Diogo’s wife, Rute, their three beautiful children, his parents and wider family are facing an unimaginable loss… As his teammates, friends and colleagues, we are consumed by shock and sorrow.”
Fans have also called for the No. 20 shirt to be retired — one goal Jota never imagined scoring.
His funeral will take place in Gondomar, Portugal, on Saturday. Many of his teammates, including those still on break, are expected to attend after the club arranged private travel.
In football, contracts are usually all about terms and transfers. But this time, Liverpool turned it into a promise — one that says family comes first, even after the final whistle.
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