On July 13, Chelsea stunned the football world with a commanding 3-0 victory over Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain in the final held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. ..Continue Reading
The triumph earned the Premier League side an estimated £85 million, with the tournament staged across 12 venues throughout the United States.
Tragically, the final came just days after the fatal accident in Cernadilla, Spain, which claimed the lives of Liverpool forward Jota and his brother.
In response to the heartbreaking news, Chelsea’s squad agreed to contribute part of their bonus earnings to the family, in what has been described as a deeply compassionate gesture.
According to The Athletic, the club had set aside a $15.5 million (£11.4 million) bonus pool to be shared among the players who participated in the tournament.
Following internal discussions, it was decided that a portion of this fund—approximately $500,000 (£368,184)—would be donated to Jota’s family.
Jota had a close bond with Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, having played alongside him at Wolverhampton Wanderers and for Portugal’s national team.
Just two days after the tragedy, Neto honored his late friend and Andre Silva by wearing a Chelsea shirt bearing their names during the quarter-final match against Palmeiras, visibly emotional as he took to the pitch.
In a tribute posted on Instagram, Neto wrote: “My sweet friend Jota. What a man, what a husband, what a father, what a partner and what a friend..
“Your endearing laugh that made us all laugh non-stop. I learned a lot from you and as you often said, ‘There are no fantasies in the world’.
“You are great and you will always be and that is how we will remember you forever. We will never forget you, watch over us.”
As the 2025/26 campaign approaches, Liverpool have revealed plans to erect a commemorative statue at Anfield in lasting memory of Diogo Jota.
In addition, the club confirmed that the No. 20 jersey will be officially retired across all age groups and teams, honoring the prolific forward who netted 65 goals in 182 matches for the Reds.
To mark the tribute, a minute of silence will be held before Liverpool’s upcoming fixture against Bournemouth on Friday, allowing players and supporters to reflect on the lives of Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
Throughout the season, Liverpool’s squad will sport a ‘Forever 20’ badge on their kits and stadium apparel, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the beloved player.
