Diogo Jota’s sons to appear as mascots before Liverpool vs Wolves this weekend
Saturday’s Premier League clash between Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield will carry deep emotional significance as Diogo Jota’s two sons walk onto the pitch alongside the matchday mascots.
Dinis and Duarte, two of the late Portuguese forward’s three children, will take part in the pre-match proceedings for what promises to be a poignant occasion.
It marks the first time these two clubs have faced each other since Jota tragically lost his life in a car accident in northwestern Spain back in July.
The 28-year-old, who represented both sides during his career, died alongside his younger brother Andre Silva when their vehicle crashed in the Zamora province.
Diogo Jota left behind a new wife and three children | REUTERS
Jota’s journey to Anfield began at Molineux, where he arrived on loan from Atletico Madrid back in 2017.
He made such an impression that Wolves snapped him up permanently the following year, and he played a key role in their promotion to the top flight.
During three seasons in the West Midlands, the Portuguese winger found the net 44 times in 131 appearances.
His performances caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp, who brought him to Liverpool in 2020 on a five-year deal.
The move proved a brilliant success, with Jota helping the Reds lift the Premier League trophy earlier this year.
Diogo Jota played for Wolves, as well as Liverpool, in the Premier League
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REUTERS
Arne Slot has penned heartfelt words in his programme notes ahead of Liverpool’s final home match of 2025.
“Reflecting on everything that has happened over the last 12 months ignites a rollercoaster of emotions but it is normal at this time of year to look back to everything that has happened,” the Liverpool boss wrote.
“Doing so leads me to think especially of the family of Diogo Jota on what will be their first Christmas without him.”
Slot added that while he cannot tell the family where to find comfort, he hopes the love and affection still felt for Jota can bring them some solace.
The club has ensured Jota’s legacy lives on at Anfield in meaningful ways.
Liverpool permanently retired his number 20 shirt across all teams, including the women’s side and youth academy, following his passing.
Supporters have also kept his memory alive by singing his song during the 20th minute of every home fixture this season.
Behind the scenes, the club’s owners FSG have committed to honouring the remainder of Jota’s contract, reportedly worth around £140,000 weekly, to support his widow Rute Cardoso and their three children.
The family attended both Liverpool and Wolves’ opening home matches of the season in August.
