LONDON (BN24) — In a deeply moving show of solidarity and respect, Chelsea Football Club players have decided to donate a portion of their Club World Cup bonuses to the family of former Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who tragically died last month at the age of 28. The touching gesture follows Chelsea’s victory in the global tournament, for which the 24-man squad was awarded a collective bonus of £11.4 million.
Each member of Enzo Maresca’s squad is set to earn approximately £475,000 for their role in the Club World Cup triumph. However, in a remarkable act of compassion, the players have unanimously chosen to contribute part of their earnings to support Jota’s widow following the fatal car crash that claimed his life, as well as the lives of his brother André Silva and his three children.
The exact amount or percentage to be donated has not been disclosed, but the decision underscores the wider football community’s sense of unity in the face of personal tragedy. The bonuses, already subject to tax and social security deductions, will now also carry the added purpose of aiding a grieving family.
Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020 and became a fan favorite at Anfield, made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals for the Reds. His untimely death has prompted tributes from across the footballing world, none more poignant than from his former club.
Liverpool FC has announced plans to permanently honor the Portuguese international. A bronze sculpture of Jota will be erected outside Anfield, immortalizing his contribution and memory. Additionally, the club will hold a minute’s silence ahead of their Premier League opener against Bournemouth on Friday. Players will wear a “Forever 20” emblem throughout the 2025/26 season, and Jota’s iconic No. 20 shirt has been retired at all levels of the club.
Fenway Sports Group CEO Michael Edwards emphasized the emotional gravity behind the tributes, stating that the club’s decision to memorialize Jota was made with the full involvement of his widow, Rute, and their extended family.
“As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters – and we felt exactly the same way,” Edwards said. “It was vitally important to us to involve Diogo’s wife, Rute, and his family in the decision and to ensure they were the first to know of our intention. I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club’s history that such an honor has been bestowed upon an individual.”
“Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us number 20, and he wore – with honor, distinction, and affection – the number 20,” Edwards added. “As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our number 20.”
Chelsea’s compassionate response to Jota’s death has resonated across the sport, serving as a poignant reminder of the human connection that transcends club rivalries. Their donation not only honors the memory of a beloved player but also provides tangible support to a grieving family, further highlighting the depth of camaraderie within football’s global community.
