Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club has added their former striker, Diogo Jota, to their Hall of Fame after his sudden death. Jota and his 25-year-old brother, Andre Silva, who was also a footballer, both died in a car crash on July 3 in Zamora, Spain.
The club made this emotional decision quickly, saying it was a rare but necessary move. The Hall of Fame is run by a separate committee, and they felt this was the right way to honour Jota’s memory.
John Richards, who is the chairman of the Hall of Fame and also a vice-president of Wolves, said the tragedy left everyone shocked and heartbroken. He explained that the club wanted to pay tribute to Jota without delay.
He remembered Jota as a fantastic player who played a major role in Wolves’ success during their promotion season under manager Nuno Espírito Santo. Jota also stood out during the club’s early years in the Premier League.
Richards said fans around the world, especially in Portugal, are deeply saddened by Jota’s passing. Jota had just helped Portugal win the Nations League this summer, making the news even more painful for many.
He added that the tribute is meant to bring some comfort to the family and loved ones of Diogo and Andre. Richards also believed that Wolves fans would understand the love and respect behind this decision.
Diogo Jota joined Wolves from Atletico Madrid in July 2017. The deal started as a loan and was later made permanent. He moved to Liverpool in 2020 after impressing at Wolves.
During his time at the club, Jota scored 44 goals in 131 matches. He was a key player when Wolves won the Championship title in the 2017-18 season, helping them get promoted to the Premier League.
Jota also helped the team finish in seventh place in their first season back in the Premier League, which allowed them to qualify for the Europa League.
The club will honour Jota and his brother again during their last pre-season match against Celta Vigo on August 9. A bigger tribute will take place during their opening Premier League match against Manchester City on August 16.
