Chelsea players have decided to donate a portion of their FIFA Club World Cup bonuses to the family of late Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. The pair tragically lost their lives in a car crash in July, a loss that shook the football community worldwide.
-Diogo Jota and Andre Silver
According to The Athletic, Chelsea had allocated £11.4 million (\$15.5m) in prize money to be shared among the squad that helped Enzo Maresca’s side win this summer’s Club World Cup. In a show of solidarity, both the club and players agreed to match an equal amount for Jota’s family.
Football Unites in Mourning
Liverpool have already honoured Jota’s legacy by unveiling plans for a memorial sculpture at Anfield.
The club has also retired the No.20 shirt and introduced a ‘Forever 20’ emblem to be worn on players’ shirts and stadium jackets throughout the season. In addition, a special fan mosaic and a minute’s silence will take place before Liverpool’s opening Premier League match against Bournemouth.
Chelsea’s gesture mirrors the sentiment across the football world, showing that rivalries end where humanity begins.
What Next?
Liverpool will kick off their Premier League title defence in an emotional fixture against Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday, while Chelsea will host London rivals Crystal Palace two days later at Stamford Bridge.
