💔 Mohamed Salah ‘Frightened’ to Return to Liverpool After Tragic Death of Teammate Diogo Jota
LIVERPOOL – July 2025 — The shockwaves from Diogo Jota’s tragic death continue to reverberate through the football world, with Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah admitting he feels “frightened” about returning to the club after the devastating news.
Jota, 28, and his younger brother Andre Silva were both killed in a car crash in Spain after their Lamborghini caught fire following a blow-out on the motorway in Zamora province. The accident happened in the early hours of Thursday.
🕊️ Grief Hits Liverpool Squad Ahead of Pre-Season
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk posted on Instagram that he was in “total disbelief”, calling the moment "absolutely devastating.” New manager Arne Slot urged unity within the club, saying the entire squad must support one another in this difficult period.
The team’s pre-season training, which was due to start on Friday, has been postponed until Monday to allow space for mourning. A planned friendly against Preston on July 13 is still scheduled, though Liverpool has emphasized that emotional readiness will be prioritized.
🗣️ Salah: “It’s Going to Be Extremely Difficult”
Mohamed Salah, last season’s Premier League top scorer, paid a deeply personal tribute on social media, revealing how the tragedy has emotionally shaken him.
“Until yesterday, I never thought there would be something that would frighten me about going back to Liverpool after the break. It’s going to be extremely difficult to accept that Diogo won’t be there when we return,” Salah wrote.
He extended heartfelt condolences to Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, their three children, and the entire Silva family.
🕯️ Tributes and Mourning Across Clubs
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Liverpool FC has lowered flags to half-mast
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A book of condolence has been opened at Anfield
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Fans continue to leave flowers, scarves, and jerseys outside Anfield and Molineux Stadium, where Jota also played during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers
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Funeral services for Diogo and Andre are scheduled for Saturday in Portugal, with thousands expected to attend
🧠Mental Health and Support
With grief spreading throughout the football community, mental health professionals have been brought in to support Liverpool staff and players.
Liverpool's spokesperson noted:
“We understand that the loss is heavy on hearts and minds. We will stand together to honor Diogo and ensure every member of our club receives the support they need.”
