Wolves Honor Diogo Jota with Emotional Tribute Video as Fans Demand Jersey Number Retirement

Wolves Honor Diogo Jota with Emotional Tribute; Fans Push for Shirt Retirement
By Luke Power
Published: 18:35 BST, 5 July 2025 | Updated: 21:21 BST, 5 July 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers have released a heartfelt video tribute to former star Diogo Jota following his tragic death in a car accident alongside his brother, Andre Silva, on Thursday. The five-minute montage, shared on social media, celebrates Jota’s electrifying moments at Molineux, accompanied by nostalgic audio clips of the Portuguese forward reflecting on his time with the club. Fans immediately praised the “beautiful tribute” and began campaigning for Wolves to retire his iconic No. 18 shirt.

[Image: Wolves’ tribute video screenshot showing Jota celebrating a goal]
Caption: Wolves’ emotional video highlighted Jota’s goals, interviews, and bond with fans.

A Legacy Etched in Gold
Jota joined Wolves on loan from Atletico Madrid in 2017, helping secure the Championship title in his debut season. He became a permanent fixture the following year, scoring 44 goals in 131 appearances across all competitions. His heroics propelled Wolves to back-to-back seventh-place Premier League finishes and a memorable Europa League quarter-final run in 2020.

The forward’s standout moments include back-to-back hat-tricks against Besiktas and Espanyol in the Europa League—a club first. His 11-minute treble against Besiktas remains the fastest European hat-trick in Wolves’ history. Despite leaving for Liverpool in a £41m deal in 2020, Jota’s connection with Wolves endured.

[Image: Jota celebrating with Ruben Neves during a Wolves match]
Caption: Jota’s partnership with Ruben Neves defined Wolves’ rise under Nuno Espírito Santo.

Fans Demand Permanent Honor
Supporters flooded social media calling for the retirement of Jota’s No. 18 shirt. One fan wrote, “He’s a legend. Retire it now.” Another added, “A fitting way to ensure his legacy lives on.” The club’s video, captioned “You made us happy, Diogo. We will never forget you,” featured clips of Jota’s first interview, title celebrations, and emotional farewell.

A Family Man’s Journey
The tribute also highlighted Jota’s devotion to family. In one clip, he said, “My parents always support me—that’s what I care about.” Reflecting on his bold move to Wolves, he admitted, “Many said I’d destroy my career leaving Champions League football for the Championship. But I wanted to prove myself.”

[Image: Young Jota and brother Andre in Porto academy kits]
Caption: Jota (right) and Andre Silva (left) pictured during their youth days at Porto.

Final Farewell
Jota and Silva were laid to rest in Gondomar, Portugal, on Saturday. Liverpool manager Arne Slot, along with teammates Jordan Henderson, Alexis Mac Allister, and James Milner, attended the funeral. A solemn procession drew thousands of mourners, honoring the brothers’ lives and careers.

Jota’s legacy extends beyond stats. He embodied resilience and passion, leaving an indelible mark on Wolves’ resurgence. As the club’s video poignantly concluded with a childhood photo of the siblings, fans worldwide united in grief—and gratitude for the joy he brought to the game.

[Image: Mourners at Jota and Silva’s funeral procession]
Caption: Liverpool manager Arne Slot and players paid respects at the emotional service.

Wolverhampton Wanderers | Diogo Jota

Share or comment on this article: Wolves post emotional tribute video to Diogo Jota celebrating his highlights as fans call for shirt number to be retired

(Word count: 648)