Diogo Jota's family are expected to be present at Anfield on Friday night, during Liverpool's opening Premier League match against Bournemouth, where a special tribute will be held for the former striker who lost his life in a tragic accident last month.
Jota, just 28, lost his life alongside his brother Andre Silva, 25, in a car accident in northern Spain. The club and the football community have united in grief and tributes for the two brothers.
The Premier League has announced that a minute of silence will be held at all matches this weekend, with players wearing black armbands in mourning. At Anfield, fans will stage an emotional tribute with a special mosaic to be unveiled on the Kop and Sir Kenny Dalglish stands during the minute of silence. Liverpool manager Arne Slott, in his notes for the first match of the season, wrote:
"We know this will be a very emotional evening, as it is the first game we play without Diogo and Andre. All the tributes that have been paid, especially from the LFC community, have been incredible. We are honoured to be able to show our love and support for his family once again."
Liverpool players will honour Jota by wearing the "Forever 20" badge on their shirts and stadium jackets, the number he wore during his time at the club. This badge will remain in place throughout the season, in memory of his unforgettable contribution.
The club has also decided to retire the number 20 shirt, after consultations with Jota's wife, Rute Cardoso, and members of his family.
Even his former club, Wolves, have announced tributes for their opening match against Manchester City on Saturday.
This weekend in the Premier League will be a painful, but also fitting, testament to a beloved player and an unforgettable man.
