Liverpool reasserted their supremacy in English football during the 2024–25 season, lifting the Premier League trophy in convincing fashion. The Reds finished the campaign a commanding 10 points ahead of their nearest challengers, marking a dream start for new head coach Arne Slot. Tasked with the enormous responsibility of succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, Slot exceeded expectations in his first year, quickly stamping his authority on the squad and delivering silverware.
Celebrations erupted across Merseyside as supporters embraced a new era of success. That optimism only grew during a historic summer transfer window, one that saw Liverpool rewrite British spending records. The club invested heavily in strengthening their squad, securing the signature of highly rated German playmaker Florian Wirtz for £116 million, alongside prolific striker Alexander Isak for £125 million. The ambitious recruitment drive underlined Liverpool’s determination to remain at the top both domestically and in Europe.
However, the sense of excitement and momentum was shattered on July 3, 2025. On that tragic day, Portuguese forward Diogo Jota was involved in a fatal car accident while travelling back to the United Kingdom from Portugal ahead of pre-season preparations. Jota had returned home to undergo minor lung surgery and to marry his long-term partner and childhood sweetheart, Rute Cardoso. He was killed in the accident alongside his brother, Andre Silva, at just 28 years of age.
The devastating news sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Tributes and messages of sympathy poured in from players, clubs, fans, and public figures across the globe. At Anfield, the sense of loss was profound. Jota was not only a key figure on the pitch but also a deeply valued presence within the Liverpool dressing room and wider club community.
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain and on-field leader, was among those who travelled to Jota’s hometown of Gondomar to attend the funeral. The Dutch defender has since spoken openly about the emotional toll of losing a teammate and close friend. As 2025 drew to a close, Van Dijk reflected on a year filled with both remarkable achievements and unimaginable heartbreak.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Van Dijk described 2025 as a year that would stay with him forever. He highlighted the highs, including winning the Premier League, qualifying for the World Cup, and breaking the record for captaining his national team. He spoke of memories and shared moments that would last a lifetime, filled with pride and joy. Yet he also acknowledged the deepest low of the year: the loss of “our brother Jots,” emphasizing that Jota was far more than just a teammate. His absence, Van Dijk wrote, is felt every single day and has changed those who knew him forever. He concluded by wishing everyone happiness, health, and success heading into 2026.
One of the most emotional moments of the season came when Van Dijk walked onto the Anfield pitch alongside Jota’s sons, Dinis and Duarte, ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League match against Wolves, another of Jota’s former clubs. Both sets of supporters united in paying tribute to a player who had become a cult hero. Van Dijk later described the occasion as a tremendous honour, explaining that it was something carefully discussed with Jota’s wife and family. Despite the inevitable emotion, he expressed hope that the moment would remain a cherished memory for the boys and that their connection to Liverpool would continue.
Liverpool ended their 2025 calendar year with a 2–1 victory over Wolves, with Florian Wirtz scoring his first competitive goal for the club. Despite an inconsistent start to the season, the Reds finished the year in fourth place in the Premier League standings, trailing leaders Arsenal by 13 points. Arne Slot later admitted that Jota’s passing had a noticeable impact on the squad during the early months of the campaign. Supporters continue to honour his memory, singing his name at matches, while the club permanently retired the No.20 shirt as a lasting tribute to a player who will never be forgotten.