Virgil van Dijk Voices Disappointment Over Diogo Jota Tribute Disruption | OneFootball

Virgil van Dijk Criticises Minute’s Silence Disruption for Diogo Jota

Emotional Wembley Tribute Interrupted

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his disappointment after a minute’s silence for Diogo Jota was cut short ahead of the Community Shield at Wembley. The tribute, also honouring Jota’s brother André Silva, came after their tragic deaths in a car accident in Spain on 3 July.

Wreaths were placed on the pitch in their memory, with images of the late siblings displayed on the stadium’s big screens. Fans from both clubs stood in respect, yet a small section in the Crystal Palace end disrupted the moment, prompting boos and shushing from other supporters.

Van Dijk admitted the incident left a sour note.

“Yes, I am disappointed,” Van Dijk said. “That is the only thing I can say. I don’t know who did that but there was plenty trying to shush it down, but obviously that doesn’t help it. But it is what it is. You can’t control how many fans were here today? Was it 80,000 people? So, yeah, it is disappointing to hear that, but if that person or those persons can go home and be happy with themselves, then …”

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Fans Lead Emotional Farewell

Before the match, Liverpool supporters had paid their own powerful tribute. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” rang around Wembley as the wreaths were carried out, accompanied by a white banner bearing “Diogo J”, his image and the number 20.

Liverpool great Ian Rush joined Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish and Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt in laying the wreaths at the Liverpool end. The gesture received a standing ovation from both sets of fans, reflecting the deep respect for Jota and his brother.

Arne Slot Highlights Positives Amid Incident

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot sought to focus on the overall show of unity rather than the interruption.

“I am a positive person and if I look at the respect that has been paid to them both,” he said. “I don’t think he had a bad intention, the guy or guys. The fans of Crystal Palace and everywhere around the world have paid huge respect to Diogo and Andre.”

Slot’s comments echoed the mood of many inside Wembley, where the majority stood in silence, heads bowed, as the club mourned a player whose impact was felt far beyond the pitch.

Legacy of a Much-Loved Player

Jota, who had been a key figure in Liverpool’s recent successes, leaves behind memories of vital goals, tireless work rate and a connection with supporters that was genuine and lasting. The emotion on the faces of fans, team-mates and coaching staff during the tribute underlined the personal loss felt across the football community.

For Van Dijk, the events before kick-off were a reminder of the respect players and fans strive to uphold in moments of mourning. His visible frustration reflected a shared sense of sadness that such a moment was interrupted.

Liverpool will continue to honour Jota’s memory as the new season begins, with his image, number and name already etched into the club’s modern history.