Preseason football fixtures typically signal a fresh start, a chance for squads to regroup, integrate new talent, and build fitness ahead of a demanding campaign. However, for Liverpool Football Club, their initial match of the summer against Preston North End arrives under a profound shadow.
The football world, and particularly everyone connected with Liverpool, is still grappling with the utterly tragic loss of forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, in a recent car accident. This devastating event has understandably cast a deep pall over the club, making the usual enthusiasm surrounding preseason a complex mix of professional obligation and heartfelt mourning.
The friendly match against Preston at Deepdale is more than just a tune-up; it has become the designated occasion for Liverpool to collectively honour the memory of Diogo and Andre. While the practicalities of preparing for the season continue, the emotional weight of their absence is palpable within the squad and among staff. Players, upon returning to training, have spoken of the difficulty of resuming normal activities in the wake of such sudden and painful news.
In recognition of Diogo Jota`s significant impact on the club, both on and off the pitch, extensive tributes are planned for the Preston fixture. Players from both Preston and Liverpool will respectfully wear black armbands during the match. Ahead of kick-off, a series of solemn moments will unfold, including a performance of Liverpool`s iconic anthem, “You`ll Never Walk Alone,” accompanied by the laying of a wreath. A minute`s silence will be observed, offering a collective moment for reflection and remembrance, while tributes will also be displayed on the stadium`s screens.
Preston North End, as the host club, have also shown commendable solidarity by creating a commemorative matchday program for the occasion. Furthermore, in a poignant and lasting gesture that underscores Diogo Jota`s indelible connection to Liverpool, the club has announced that his number 20 jersey will be permanently retired across all levels of the club setup.
Amidst this solemn context, the football must, by necessity, proceed. The match on Sunday, July 13th, serves the practical purpose of beginning the preseason regimen. It may offer the first glimpse of new additions to the Liverpool squad as manager Arne Slot begins to implement his plans. However, any on-field developments will inevitably be secondary to the primary purpose of the day: paying tribute to a fallen teammate and his brother.
As the teams take the field at Deepdale, the focus will shift momentarily to the game itself, but the memory of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of everyone`s minds. This friendly fixture stands as a poignant, albeit difficult, first step in the new season, a necessary move forward taken with heavy hearts but unwavering respect for those tragically lost.
Percy Harlow