Liverpool’s preparations for the new season have taken an emotional pause after the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota.

The Portuguese international, just 28 years old, passed away in a car accident in Spain along with his younger brother, Andre Silva.

The news has left the football world stunned, and Liverpool have delayed their pre-season plans as the club and its players mourn the loss of a teammate, a friend, and a beloved figure in the dressing room.

Liverpool postpone pre-season return following death of forward Diogo Jota	Mourners arrive for Diogo Jota wake as Liverpool postpone pre-season return for players – LIVE	Liverpool postpone pre-season return of players as the club continue to mourn the death of Diogo Jota

Jota had chosen to travel by car and ferry back to England after undergoing minor surgery and being advised not to fly.

He was returning to Liverpool for the start of pre-season.

Liverpool had initially planned to welcome players back to the AXA Training Centre on July 4.

At this moment, football has taken a back seat.

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Head coach Arne Slot admitted words fail in times like these.

Support has poured in from across the football world, including Wolves, where Jota spent three successful years.

Liverpool’s first friendly against Preston North End on July 13 is still scheduled to go ahead.

Slot, who is only just settling in, now leads a group united by grief before football.

Mohamed Salah posted, “It’s going to be extremely difficult to accept that Diogo won’t be there when we go back.”

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