Arne Slot praises Everton’s show of respect after Diogo Jota’s passing

Arne Slot praises Everton’s show of respect after Diogo Jota’s passing

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed his gratitude to Everton for the way they supported their city rivals in the aftermath of Diogo Jota’s tragic death in July. Slot said such gestures prove that compassion goes beyond football rivalries, as Liverpool prepare to host Everton in Saturday’s first Merseyside derby of the season.

Jota and his brother, André Silva, lost their lives in a car accident in northern Spain during the summer. In the days following, Anfield became a place of mourning, with fans from across the football world leaving flowers and tributes.

Everton were among the first clubs to show solidarity, sending a delegation including Portuguese strikers Beto and Youssef Chermiti, along with club legend Ian Snodin. Manager David Moyes and captain Seamus Coleman also attended to pay their respects.

Slot acknowledged how much their support meant at such a painful time. “It was their captain, their staff, and their players showing respect. It’s important to remember moments like that,” he said at his Friday press conference.

While also speaking about Everton’s strong form and signings — highlighting Jack Grealish’s loan move — Slot emphasised the importance of respect alongside rivalry. “The derby is always special, but it’s even more meaningful when you know there’s mutual respect in difficult times,” he said.

Slot also praised English football culture, noting how fans from rival teams can stand together in stadiums, something he contrasted with the Netherlands, where away fans are often banned from high-profile fixtures like Ajax vs Feyenoord.

“Yes, there is rivalry, and yes, fans are passionate, but there is also respect,” Slot said. “That is what makes English football unique, and I hope it always stays that way.”