In a deeply emotional reflection, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has spoken about the devastating passing of Diogo Jota, a player he described as “family.” Klopp’s words paint a portrait of grief that transcends football — a reminder that behind the roaring crowds and shining trophies, there are human stories of love, loss, and memory.
“When I found out, I couldn’t speak,” Klopp admitted in a conversation on The Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett. “I just sat there in silence. He wasn’t just a player to me — he was like family.”
The German coach’s words reveal the profound emotional bond that existed within Liverpool’s dressing room — a bond that made Jota’s passing more than just the loss of a talented forward. Klopp explained that the tragedy continues to echo through the halls of Anfield, where Jota’s presence is still deeply felt.
“Nobody at Liverpool will ever use Diogo Jota’s death as an excuse,” Klopp said firmly. “But this is our reality every day. The players and staff still walk the same corridors he walked. It’s something that’s impossible to process.”
Beyond his ability on the pitch, Jota’s warmth and humility made him an irreplaceable figure within the club. Klopp’s heartfelt question — “How do you replace a guy like Diogo Jota?” — captures the emotional void left behind. “He was exceptional with everyone — staff, teammates, fans. You can’t just find another person like that.”
In a touching revelation, Klopp also shared that Mohamed Salah had played a key role in bringing Jota to Liverpool. “It’s true,” he said. “Mo Salah was the one who encouraged me to sign him. He believed in Diogo before anyone else did.”
Klopp’s words remind the football world that the game is not only about tactics and trophies, but also about people — their connections, their kindness, and their legacy. Diogo Jota’s story will remain woven into Liverpool’s history, not just for his goals and performances, but for the profound impact he made on the people around him
