There could not have been a starker contrast between the scenes at Anfield after Liverpool won the Premier League title, and then now.

Just weeks ago, Diogo Jota and his teammates were dancing around with the silverware they coveted the most.

A message left in Gondomar for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva.



So many people have mourned the tragic loss of Jota and Silva because of soccer; the Liverpool number 20, in particular, was known to many because of his job.

Liverpool CEO pays tribute and explains next steps in remembering Diogo Jota and Andre Silva	Diogo Jota's neighbors offer tearful tribute to humble Liverpool star and brother Andre Silva	‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ a fitting tribute to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, claims Liverpool icon

Millions around the world have struggled to come to terms with his passing because — despite never meeting him — they felt that they had a connection with Jota.

Tributes are laid for Diogo Jota at Anfield

In Gondomar, at Anfield, and well beyond, people who had perhaps only ever seen Jota through a TV screen, or had never had a direct interaction with Silva, were lost for words, struggling to process their emotions

It is about relationships, friendships, and a sense of belonging.

Everyone knew that already, of course, but the deaths of Jota and Silva — leaving behind a devastated family — are a reminder of just how big a part in fans' lives those who play the sport really play