Liverpool manager Arne Slot has hailed the "special" and unifying tribute paid by fans to the late striker Diogo Jota during his side's Premier League encounter with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield.
An Emotional Display of Unity
The match marked the first meeting between the two clubs since the Portugal international's tragic passing in July. In a powerful show of respect, Jota's two young sons, Dinis and Duarte, acted as mascots for the emotionally charged fixture.
The memorial continued in the stands, where supporters of both clubs orchestrated a moving tribute. In the 18th minute, Wolves fans sang their song dedicated to Jota, which was met with respectful applause from the Liverpool faithful. The roles were reversed in the 20th minute, as Anfield rose to acclaim their former player, with Wolves fans reciprocating the applause. The minutes chosen reflected Jota's squad numbers during his time at each club.
The entire Wolves squad had visited the memorial to Jota outside Anfield to pay their respects on the eve of the match, which Liverpool went on to win 2-1.
Slot's Praise for the Football World
Speaking after the game, Slot was deeply moved by the atmosphere. "It was difficult but in a way also special and nice," the Dutch coach said. "The football world again showed how to behave in moments like this. Our fans have been incredible since the tragedy happened."
He reserved particular praise for the collaborative spirit shown by both sets of supporters. "Today the away fans showed it is not only about our fans," Slot continued. "You guys know how special English fans are and today showed the outside world that it is not only the players who make this league special."
Wirtz Nets First Goal on Poignant Afternoon
On the pitch, the match was decided by Florian Wirtz's first goal for Liverpool since his high-profile £116 million summer transfer from Bayer Leverkusen. The strike secured a victory that extended Liverpool's unbeaten run to seven games.
Slot expressed his delight for the German midfielder, stating the goal was a clear "relief" for him. "I could see with his reaction when he scored the goal and it was the same with his teammates, they were really happy for him," said the head coach.
While acknowledging the importance of goals, Slot was keen to highlight Wirtz's overall contribution. "He is getting fitter and fitter and he was getting closer and closer to his first goal... But I also liked his performance during large parts of the game today, I think he was special in a lot of moments."
The afternoon, however, will be remembered far more for the profound display of solidarity and remembrance that transcended the result, honouring the memory of a player cherished by both clubs.
