Virgil van Dijk mourns tragic loss of Jota

Virgil van Dijk expressed “total disbelief” after learning that team-mate Diogo Jota was killed in a car accident on Thursday, aged just 28. The Liverpool captain posted an emotional message on social media, writing: “My heart is breaking. I don’t want to believe it. Rest easy, brother.”

Virgil van Dijk leads tributes across football

Within minutes of the news, Anfield’s flags were lowered to half-mast and floral scarves began to appear outside the Shankly Gates. Van Dijk’s tribute was echoed by manager Jürgen Klopp, who described Jota as “a player with a smile that could light up Melwood.” Former club Wolves, Portugal team-mates and Premier League rivals also flooded timelines with condolences, underlining the winger’s impact on and off the pitch.

Club plans to honour Diogo Jota

Liverpool have confirmed that black armbands will be worn in Sunday’s friendly against Preston North End, while a minute’s silence will precede kick-off. The club is also exploring a longer-term memorial, potentially renaming one of the new AXA Training Centre pitches in Jota’s honour. Supporters’ groups have launched a fundraiser for his hometown youth academy in Massarelos.

Reactions from the dressing room

Alisson Becker spoke of “unimaginable pain,” and Trent Alexander-Arnold called Jota “the most humble superstar I ever met.” Messages from Mohamed Salah, Jordan Henderson and Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo all highlighted the forward’s relentless work ethic and infectious positivity.

Opinion

Losing a talent like Jota at the peak of his career feels cruel beyond words. Football’s tribal lines dissolve in moments like these, reminding us that, beneath the rivalry, the sport is a shared human experience built on joy, respect and empathy.