Diogo Jota and Andre Silva’s tragic passings were felt throughout the footballing world, and they will once again be in the hearts and minds of Liverpool fans for Sunday’s home fixture.
Jota and Silva lost their lives on 3 July when their car crashed while travelling in Zamora, Spain. The incident shocked fans all around the world as supporters and players alike paid their emotional tributes to the player.
The Portuguese star who wore the No. 20 was a beloved figure wherever he played, whether that be on Merseyside, in the Midlands, or for his national side. He was a fond member of each team and community.
Bruno Fernandes was a fellow national teammate of the Liverpool star, and as Manchester United come to Anfield for the first time since his death, the Portuguese player has made sure to pay tribute.
After the passing of Jota and his brother, the United midfielder released a statement on their passing, where he spoke lovingly of both men and travelled to Liverpool to lay a wreath at the memorial.
Bruno Fernandes says Diogo Jota will be with players this weekend in some way
The Red Devils captain spoke to Sky Sports ahead of the clash on Sunday, speaking about the meaning of the fixture, but ending his interview with some words about his national teammate.
Fernandes said: “No, obviously, it’s difficult and sad not to have your national teammate there. Played many times against him, not only with the Liverpool shirt but also with the Wolves shirt.
“It will be difficult because I know how much the fans love the way Diogo was, as everyone loved because he was a quiet but funny character inside the dressing room. Obviously, it will be a difficult moment, but I want to remember the good things and the good moments he had there. Obviously, he is not with us in presence, but he will be there in some way.”
It was a beautiful tribute from a player who clearly loved being around Jota, which has been nice to hear about a person who was clearly such a warm and incredible character off the pitch.
This situation has been tough on all the players in the squad and those who were his teammates and friends, but the tributes from fans and the appreciation in every game has been amazing to see.
Liverpool vs Manchester United will be an emotional occasion
It has been just over three months since the world lost such an incredible person, and this fixture, like many this season, will be an emotional occasion.
Of course, it will be tough for the Liverpool players, but also for Fernandes and his other Portuguese teammate, Diogo Dalot, who will no doubt find it difficult on the day. It will be a brilliant chance to remember their teammate alongside the fans and the opposition.
It will be expected that supporters in the ground will continue to clap on the 20th minute of the game, as everyone at the club continues to keep the memory of Jota alive in any way they can.
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