It was scheduled as a standard preseason friendly – a chance for Liverpool to dust off the cobwebs against Preston North End, test new tactics, and give fresh signings a run-out. Yet, as the teams prepared to meet at Deepdale, the air hung heavy, thick with a grief that transcends the usual anxieties of football. The sport, for a moment, felt profoundly secondary.
The footballing world, and particularly the Liverpool family, is mourning the tragic and untimely death of forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva. Their passing in a car accident has cast a long, dark shadow, reminding everyone involved that some losses are far greater than anything that can happen on a pitch. Players returning to training have spoken of the immense emotional impact, reflecting on Jota`s significant presence and contribution to the club.
While the game itself must proceed, the occasion is primarily dedicated to remembrance. Both clubs are set to pay heartfelt tributes ahead of and during the match. Fans and players will witness and participate in:
- A performance of the club`s anthem, *You`ll Never Walk Alone*, a song never more fitting than in times of collective sorrow.
- The laying of a wreath as a mark of respect.
- A minute`s silence, a quiet moment for reflection amidst the stadium sounds.
- Tributes displayed prominently on stadium screens.
- Both sets of players wearing black armbands, a universal symbol of mourning.
- Preston producing a commemorative matchday program.
- Liverpool`s significant decision to retire Diogo Jota`s number 20 jersey across all levels of the club, a permanent honor.
These gestures serve as a poignant reminder that rivalry fades in the face of shared humanity and loss.
The friendly fixture is scheduled for Sunday, July 13, with a kickoff time of 9:45 a.m. ET. It takes place at Deepdale, Preston, England.
Amidst the solemn atmosphere, the pragmatic reality of a new season necessitates integrating new talent. Recent additions Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, arriving from Bayer Leverkusen, could potentially make their first appearances for the Reds. Wirtz, reportedly a record signing, will carry expectations, while Frimpong steps into a role impacted by Trent Alexander-Arnold`s move to Real Madrid. Milos Kerkez, signed from Bournemouth, is another candidate for a debut. These new faces begin their Liverpool journey under circumstances no one would have wished for, highlighting the constant evolution of a squad even in difficult times.
Ultimately, the match between Preston North End and Liverpool on this day is more than just a preseason warm-up. It is a moment for the football community to come together, to mourn a talented player and his brother, and to show solidarity. The scoreline, in this instance, is secondary to the shared human experience of grief, remembrance, and the quiet strength required to move forward, together.
Dominic Ashworth