Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo has revealed how the team tried to process the tragic death of Diogo Jota, which took place last month.
A month has passed since Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a car accident in Spain, in what the biggest tragedies of football has been in recent years. The event led to a tribute all over the world flooded from both Liverpool supporters and rival clubs.
Gakpo was on vacation when Jota died, but was one of those who attended an emotional funeral in Gondomar and to visit a sanctuary that was made outside of Anfield, filled with tribute to the Portuguese star. Speaking of athletics, Gakpo revealed how the team deals after his death.
“Yes, it was very difficult. Many of us were still on vacation when the situation happened. We met as quickly as possible as a team and as a club.
“At that time we tried to be there as much as possible for the family and together as a team to help where we can. We are still trying to do that, and everyone is still a little more busy behind the scenes than what is in the news, reaching and helping as much as possible.”
Liverpool has tried to adjust their bit by retiring his number 20 shirt and hiring a sculpture in honor of him.
The players will also wear a 'Forever 20' emblem on their shirts and stadium jackets during the 2025-26 campaign. Gakpo believes that this is an important gesture to remember the winger.
“It is the least we can do. Of course he was an excellent player, but he was still great as a person. He was good with everyone. Everyone loved him, and that is what you saw with how everyone reacted.
“So yes, it is more that we want to remember who he was for us. Not as a player, because the player we can see at the highlights on YouTube, but more like the person he was.
“He will be missed this season, but he will also be missed by everyone in this team and in this club, and by his family, for the rest of our lives. We will not forget him.”