Emotional tribute to Diogo Jota leaves Liverpool fans and commentators in tears

Liverpool’s pre-season clash with Preston North End was marked by an overwhelming display of emotion, as fans, players, and commentators came together to honor the late Diogo Jota. The beloved forward tragically passed away earlier this month in a car accident alongside his brother, Andre Silva. He leaves behind his wife, Rute, whom he married just two weeks before the tragedy and their three children.

Diogo Jota remembered at Deepdale

Sunday’s friendly at Deepdale was Liverpool’s first appearance since Jota’s untimely death, and tributes flowed from start to finish. Fans filled the away end with commemorative banners, and a moving rendition of Jota’s signature chant echoed through the stadium after the final whistle.

Liverpool players and coaching staff, even those not featured in the game, stood applauding the traveling supporters for several minutes, visibly moved by the crowd’s passion and grief.

On-pitch tributes and emotional gestures

During the match, players paid their own heartfelt tributes. Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo honored Jota by performing his trademark shark celebration after scoring, with Conor Bradley also adding his name to the scoresheet in Liverpool’s 3-1 win under new head coach Arne Slot.

However, the most touching scenes unfolded post-match. The atmosphere turned deeply emotional as LFC TV commentators Gary Gillespie and John Bradley struggled to contain their tears while describing the moment. Fans praised their raw and honest reactions, with @Clubberchops posting on X: “Turned over to LFC TV for coverage and seeing Bradders and Gary Gillespie being so emotional got me in bits again.”

Andy Robertson overcome with grief

Defender Andy Robertson, a close friend of Jota’s, was seen stepping away from his teammates to compose himself. Robertson had previously shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, writing:

He was such a good guy. The best. So genuine. Just normal and real. Full of love for the people he cared about. Full of fun. I can’t believe we’re saying goodbye. It’s too soon, and it hurts so much. But thank you for being in my life, mate – and for making it better. Love you, Diogo.

As the players left the pitch, the away end united for one last chorus of "You'll Never Walk Alone," a fitting farewell to a player gone far too soon.