Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has shared a deeply emotional message reflecting on a year of profound loss for the club, following the tragic death of teammate Diogo Jota.
A Year of Highs and an Unimaginable Low
In a poignant New Year's post on Instagram, Van Dijk described 2025 as a year that would "always stay with me". He acknowledged the significant on-pitch successes, including winning the Premier League and achieving World Cup qualification, alongside his personal milestone of becoming the Netherlands' most-capped captain.
However, the defender stated that the year brought "one unimaginable low" with the loss of "our brother Jots". Jota, along with his brother André Silva, died in a car crash in the summer of 2025.
"He was more than just part of a football team," Van Dijk wrote. "His absence is felt every day, and his loss changed us forever." The skipper concluded by wishing everyone happiness, health, and success for 2026.
Anfield Pays Moving Tribute
The football community's ongoing grief was palpable last weekend when Jota's widow, Rute Cardoso, returned to Anfield with their two young sons for Liverpool's Premier League match against Wolves.
In an incredibly moving gesture, sons Dinis and Duarte served as mascots, leading both teams onto the pitch. Supporters from Liverpool and Wolves united in special tributes to honour the Portuguese forward's memory throughout the emotional afternoon.
Following the match, Cardoso expressed her profound gratitude on Instagram. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time," she said, adding that the messages and gestures had meant more than words could express.
A Legacy Remembered
Liverpool fans have maintained a consistent tribute to Jota throughout the season, regularly chanting his name and unfurling banners at Anfield. The club, under manager Arne Slot, continues to navigate the season while carrying the memory of their teammate.
The team's next fixture is a Premier League clash against Leeds United at Anfield on New Year's Day, with kick-off scheduled for 5.30pm.
