Fresh off Liverpool’s emotional decision to retire his No.20 shirt, Diogo Jota has now been honoured by Wolves with a place in their Hall of Fame.
The Premier League side confirmed the news on Wednesday, saying the decision was made quickly to recognise the Portuguese forward’s impact at the club. It comes just two weeks after Jota and his younger brother André Silva tragically died in a car accident in Spain on July 3.
Jota played 131 games for Wolves between 2017 and 2020, scoring 44 goals and helping the club win promotion from the Championship. He also played a key role in their early success in the Premier League under Nuno Espírito Santo, including Europa League qualification. His performances earned him a £45 million move to Liverpool in 2020.
Wolves said the Hall of Fame induction process usually takes months, but in Jota’s case, it was a unanimous and instant decision. Only 38 names had been added since the Hall of Fame was created in 2008.
“There is such a feeling of sadness and disbelief around this awful tragedy that we wanted to make this tribute of our own as soon as we could,” said John Richards, the club’s Hall of Fame chairman and a former Wolves striker.
“Like everyone else, we’ve been stunned by events. We remember what a wonderful player Diogo was during that unforgettable promotion season under Nuno and our early years back in the Premier League.”
Jota had just helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in June and was preparing for another big season with Liverpool. His total of 65 goals for the Reds, along with major honours including the Premier League title, made him one of the most loved forwards in recent years.
Wolves director Matt Wild added: “Diogo was not only a phenomenal footballer but someone who carried himself with humility and kindness. His legacy here is etched into our history, and we are proud to see him recognised in this way.”
Wolves will pay further tribute to Jota and his brother during their final pre-season game against Celta Vigo on August 9, and again at their Premier League opener against Manchester City on August 16.
Last Sunday, Liverpool and Preston North End held a special tribute at Deepdale before kick-off, marking the club’s first match since the tragedy.
