Cody Gakpo Breaks Silence on Liverpool’s Emotional Support for Diogo Jota’s Family After His Tragic Death

Liverpool Football Club is still hurting after the tragic loss of one of its brightest stars, Diogo Jota. The 28-year-old forward passed away last month in a heartbreaking car crash in Portugal, alongside his brother André. The accident happened when Jota’s Lamborghini had a tire blowout while overtaking another car. It lost control, left the road, and burst into flames. 

This shocking news left not just the Liverpool team but the entire football world in deep sorrow. Since then, tributes have poured in from fans, players, and clubs across the globe. But it’s the Liverpool squad, his teammates and close friends, who are feeling the pain most deeply. 

One of them, Dutch forward Cody Gakpo, has now opened up about how the team is coping with the loss. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Gakpo described Jota as “an outstanding player and a wonderful human being.” He said the team is still doing all they can to support Jota’s family, his wife Rute Cardoso and their three young children. 

“It’s been very difficult,” Gakpo admitted. “Many of us were on vacation when we heard the news. We came together as quickly as we could. We wanted to be there for the family, and we are still doing things behind the scenes to help them.” 

According to Gakpo, the players continue to reach out quietly, away from media attention. “We hope his family can feel the love we have for them,” he added. “Not just from us, but from the fans, the city, and everyone who supports this club. We are a family.” 

When Liverpool played their first match since Jota’s death, a friendly against Preston, Gakpo honored him with Jota’s iconic goal celebration. It was a silent but powerful moment that brought many to tears. 

The club has also taken symbolic steps to honor their fallen teammate. Liverpool has officially retired Jota’s No. 20 shirt. This season, the players will wear a special emblem on their Adidas jerseys, a badge that reads “Forever 20.” 

There are also plans to unveil a sculpture of Diogo Jota at Anfield, a permanent tribute that will stand as a reminder of his talent and spirit. Gakpo says these gestures are meaningful, but they’re only a small way to express what Jota meant to the team. 

“The emblem is the least we can do,” Gakpo said. “As a footballer, his highlights will always be there on YouTube. But what made him special was who he was as a person. Everyone loved him. Everyone felt better just being around him.” 

Jota wasn’t just known for scoring goals. He was known for kindness, laughter, humility, and a sense of unity. Gakpo emphasized that the team wants to keep his memory alive not just on the pitch, but in their daily lives. 

“He’s not just someone we’ll miss this season,” Gakpo continued. “We’ll miss him for the rest of our lives.” 

Even though Liverpool is getting ready to defend their Premier League title this season, the sadness still lingers. Their first league match is on August 15 at home against Bournemouth. But before that, they’ll face Athletic Bilbao in a friendly and Crystal Palace in the Community Shield, both matches are expected to include more tributes to Jota. 

Fans are also playing a huge role in the grieving process. Messages, banners, and online tributes have poured in from all corners of the world. Anfield has become a place not only of football celebration but also of remembrance. 

Liverpool’s manager and coaching staff have praised the team for sticking together during this difficult time. They’ve encouraged open conversations and created space for players to express their grief. 

More than just a club, Liverpool has shown the power of true unity. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” has taken on a deeper meaning. Through every match and every moment of silence, the spirit of Diogo Jota will walk with them. 

His legacy lives on, not just in goals and games, but in hearts and memories.