Diogo Jota given 'rare' honor by former club in touching tribute

3 weeks ago 79

Wolves have confirmed the induction of Diogo Jota into their Hall of Fame, honouring his significant contribution during his time at Molineux before his £45m move to Liverpool in 2020.

Jota, aged 28, was involved in a tragic road traffic accident in Spain on Thursday, July 3, which also claimed the life of his brother Andre Silva, aged 25. The football community has united in mourning following the deaths of the two Portuguese players, who represented Liverpool and Penafiel respectively, with tributes pouring in from across the globe.

The forward's legacy at Wolves, where he played from 2017 to 2020, has been cemented with his Hall of Fame induction. The decision by the Midlands club is described as 'rare and heartfelt', typically requiring weeks or months of deliberation by the committee led by Wolves legend John Richards. Since its establishment in 2008, only 38 players or teams have been honored with a place in the Hall of Fame.

Richards expressed the club's profound sorrow: "There is such a feeling of sadness and disbelief around this awful tragedy that we wanted to make this tribute of our own as soon as we could.

"Like everyone else, we've been stunned by events, and we remember what a wonderful player Diogo was for Wolves during that unforgettable promotion season under Nuno and our early years back in the Premier League.

"His record of 44 goals at Wolves, and then 65 at Liverpool as a Premier League title winner, speaks volumes. So many fans across the game – especially in Portugal after he helped them win the Nations League this summer – are feeling his loss deeply. We saw no reason to delay this decision.

"We hope it will bring a little comfort to those who were close to Diogo and Andre, and we trust Wolves supporters will understand that this gesture is made with real love and admiration, and also fully justified."

Wolves' director of football administration, Matt Wild, added: "This is a moving gesture and one the club fully supports.

Diogo Jota of Wolverhampton Wanderers

Diogo Jota playing for Wolves in 2019

"Diogo was not only a phenomenal footballer, but someone who carried himself with humility and kindness throughout his time at Wolves, and will be sorely missed by all of us.

"His legacy here is etched into our history, and we are proud to see him recognised in this way. The response from supporters has been overwhelming, and this Hall of Fame honour feels very fitting."

Wolves have previously confirmed plans to pay tribute to Jota and Silva at their next two home fixtures - the final summer friendly against Celta Vigo and their Premier League opener versus Manchester City. Exact details will be announced shortly.

Liverpool and Preston North End paid an emotional tribute at Deepdale last Sunday as Arne Slot's side took to the pitch for the first time since Jota's passing.

The club have officially retired his No. 20 shirt, a decision made following discussions with Jota's wife, Rute, and their family - marking the first time this has occurred in Liverpool's history.

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