Liverpool boss Arne Slot breaks silence on Crystal Palace fans spoiling Diogo Jota minutes silence
During the Community Shield match at Wembley, a minute's silence held in tribute to former Liverpool forward Diogo Jota was disrupted by a small minority of Crystal Palace fans, who were heard shouting and booing.
Jota tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain on 3 July alongside his brother Andre Silva. The tribute included wreaths laid on the pitch, a standing ovation from both clubs, and a rousing rendition of Liverpool’s anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone” as fans raised a banner with Jota’s image and number 20.
Despite the interruption, the vast majority of Palace supporters and Liverpool fans showed respect, attempting to silence the disruptive voices. Liverpool legend Ian Rush, Palace chairman Steve Parish, and Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt participated in laying wreaths at the Liverpool end of the stadium.
Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot expressed his pride in how his team had handled the tragedy during a difficult summer. He said the passing of Jota had a significant impact on everyone connected to the club and that they are still coming to terms with the loss.
The incident drew criticism in the press and from former FIFA referees, who condemned the disruptive behavior of those Crystal Palace fans during the solemn occasion.
The minute’s silence had to be cut short by referee Chris Kavanah due to the disruption but the overall atmosphere remained respectful with widespread tributes and standing ovations from both sets of supporters.
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