The Premier League meeting between Liverpool vs Wolves at Anfield on Saturday is set to be one of the most emotionally charged fixtures of the season, as the sons of the late Diogo Jota will take part in a special pre-match tribute. The match will be the first time Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers have faced each other since the tragic death of the Portuguese international earlier this year.
Dinis and Duarte, two of Jota’s three children, will accompany the official matchday mascots onto the pitch before kick-off. Their presence is expected to be a deeply moving moment, not only for supporters inside Anfield but also for fans watching around the world. The Liverpool vs Wolves fixture will therefore serve as both a competitive Premier League contest and a moment of remembrance for a player who made a lasting impact at both clubs.
Diogo Jota passed away in July at the age of 28 following a car crash in Spain, in which his younger brother Andre Silva also lost his life. The incident occurred in the Spanish province of Zamora as Jota was travelling back to England to begin pre-season preparations with Liverpool ahead of the 2025–26 campaign. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the footballing world and prompted tributes from clubs, players, and supporters across Europe.
Saturday’s Liverpool vs Wolves match at Anfield will be the first meeting between the two teams since that devastating event. Both clubs were central to Jota’s career, with Wolves providing the platform for his rise in English football and Liverpool witnessing the peak of his success at club level.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the emotional significance of the fixture in his programme notes ahead of the club’s final home match of 2025. He reflected on the past year as one filled with intense emotions and said his thoughts were especially with Jota’s family as they approach their first Christmas without him.
Slot stated that while it is impossible to tell grieving families where they might find comfort, he hopes the love and affection Jota continues to receive from fans can bring some sense of solace. His words underline how deeply Jota remains respected and remembered within the Liverpool vs Wolves football communities.
Diogo Jota’s Career and Lasting Legacy at Liverpool and Wolves
Diogo Jota joined Liverpool in September 2020 after three impressive seasons with Wolves. During his time at Anfield, he established himself as a crucial part of Liverpool’s attacking unit. Across 182 appearances, Jota scored 65 goals, contributing significantly to the club’s success in domestic competitions.
He played a key role in Liverpool’s FA Cup and League Cup triumphs in the 2021–22 season and was also part of the squad that lifted the Premier League title last season. Known for his work rate, intelligent movement, and finishing ability, Jota quickly became a fan favourite at Anfield.
Before his success with Liverpool, Jota made his name at Wolves. Initially joining on a season-long loan from Atletico Madrid in 2017, he helped the club secure promotion from the Championship in the 2017–18 season. Wolves later signed him permanently, and he went on to score 44 goals in 131 appearances across all competitions. His performances at Molineux laid the foundation for his move to Liverpool and his rise on the international stage with Portugal.
Both clubs have honoured Jota throughout the 2025–26 season. Liverpool supporters displayed mosaics reading “DJ20” in the Kop and Sir Kenny Dalglish stands, while Wolves fans unfurled banners bearing his image at Molineux. Music tributes and moments of reflection have also been held, highlighting the shared respect between the two clubs ahead of Liverpool vs Wolves.
Liverpool further honoured Jota by retiring his number 20 shirt, a rare gesture that reflects the significance of his contribution to the club. Jota had worn the number since his arrival from Wolves, and it has since become synonymous with his legacy at Anfield.
The presence of Jota’s sons during the Liverpool vs Wolves fixture adds a deeply personal element to the tribute. The family were previously present when Liverpool celebrated their 20th league title and have attended matches at both Anfield and Molineux this season, reinforcing the strong bond between Jota’s family and the clubs he represented.
As Liverpool vs Wolves kicks off, the match will stand as a reminder that football extends beyond results and rivalries. It will be a moment that reflects unity, respect, and remembrance, celebrating the life of a player whose influence continues to be felt across English football.
FAQs
When and where is the Liverpool vs Wolves match being played?
The Liverpool vs Wolves Premier League fixture will take place on Saturday at Anfield.
Why is the Liverpool vs Wolves match important this season?
It is the first time the two teams have met since the death of former forward Diogo Jota, making it an emotional occasion for both clubs.
Who are the children involved in the pre-match tribute?
Dinis and Duarte, two of Diogo Jota’s sons, will walk onto the pitch with the mascots before kick-off.
What honours have Liverpool paid to Diogo Jota?
Liverpool retired his number 20 shirt and held multiple tributes at Anfield during the season.
How did Diogo Jota contribute to Wolves?
He helped Wolves gain promotion to the Premier League and scored 44 goals in 131 appearances for the club.
Did Diogo Jota’s family attend matches earlier this season?
Yes, his family attended matches at both Anfield and Molineux during the 2025–26 season.