As Liverpool prepared for their 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday, former captain Steven Gerrard spoke about the enduring impact of Diogo Jota, a player whose presence extended far beyond the pitch. Jota, who tragically passed away this past summer, remains in the hearts of his teammates, the club, and the wider football community.
Gerrard, who captained Liverpool for over a decade and understands the unique bonds forged within a top-flight squad, was asked about the emotional weight of losing a player so influential in the dressing room.
“Well, I think, speaking from a player’s point of view, I can only imagine what that’s like in terms of the emotion that the players have had to deal with, especially the players that were really close,” Gerrard told TNT Sports. “I think the new players have probably come in and felt that, too.”
Jota’s death over the summer shocked the footballing world. The Portuguese forward had carved out a reputation not only for his brilliance on the field but also for his character off it. For Liverpool, the loss was particularly devastating. Gerrard highlighted how the impact of his passing went far beyond the club’s training ground.
“But it’s not just the dressing room that has been impacted by the death of Diogo Jota,” Gerrard said. “Because he was a wonderful player by all accounts. He was a wonderful human being. He did a lot for the community. So, I mean, as a fan and someone who’s connected to the club, it’s had an incredible impact on every one of us, and you know, his legacy will remain. We’ll always respect that, for the sake of him and his family, his young family.”
The former Liverpool captain reflected on how Jota’s passing will have affected individuals differently. While all within the club have mourned, the loss hits hardest for those who shared day-to-day life with him: his teammates. Gerrard specifically named Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson, who were closest to Jota during his time at Anfield.
“For the likes of Salah, Van Dijk, and Robertson, who played a lot of games with him, even the Wolves players just to step away from that and the Portugal players, to be that close to someone… I could only imagine losing a teammate, someone who you’re going into battle with every three, four days, somebody you’re spending every single day of your life with,” Gerrard explained.
“You go into the training ground at eight, nine in the morning, you’re there till three, four in the afternoon. Every single day, you’re traveling. Really difficult to imagine the impact that would have on you as a teammate.”
Jota’s death came as a profound shock during the summer, leaving a void felt not only at Liverpool but also in the broader footballing world. Known for his infectious personality, work ethic, and commitment to the community, he was beloved by fans and peers alike. His professionalism and kindness off the pitch mirrored his intensity and skill on it, making his loss all the more poignant.
While his career was cut tragically short, Jota’s influence resonates across Anfield and beyond. He was more than just a footballer; he was a figure who embodied the spirit and values of Liverpool, both in his conduct and his commitment to the community. Gerrard emphasised that the respect for his legacy would endure.
“Liverpool continue to remember Jota and rightly so,” Gerrard said. “The special talent was taken far too soon, and his legacy at the club will continue to live on.”
As the Reds look ahead to the challenges of the season, Jota’s memory remains a quiet source of inspiration. In a squad navigating transition and expectations under Arne Slot, the echo of his energy and dedication serves as a reminder of the bonds and values that define Liverpool Football Club.
