Slott: We will always miss Jota, the newly signed players adapted to the team well

 5:40pm, 4 August 2025
At 0:00 am and 3:00 am on August 5, Liverpool will usher in two friendly matches against Athletic Bilbao. Before the game, Slott said on the club's official match day program that it would be an emotional moment because it was the first time Liverpool played at Anfield since Jota's death.

Slott wrote: "Of course, we also know that this will be an emotional moment, because it is our first home game since we lost Jota. I know you will pay tribute to him before, during and after the game, and I also know that we will hear songs about him echoing on the court all night."

"This time has been very difficult for everyone in the club, especially for Jota's family, wife, children and friends. We cannot imagine the pain they have gone through, and the club will continue to give them all. Possibly much support. No matter where we go, we will always miss Jota and care for him. "

"Jota's death has had a huge impact on all of us, but most importantly the love and care shown by the football community, especially the Liverpool community. At Anfield, at the AXA Training Centre, at the northern end of Preston, and on the tours in Hong Kong and Japan in China, we deeply feel the meaning of Jota to everyone and how united our fans are. "

"I also want to mention the strength of my players and courage. They faced a very difficult situation, but they were united and their performance was commendable, both on and off the court. We really couldn’t ask for more from them, and I’m extremely proud of them. "

" Our trip to Asia was very successful, and we had a lot of hard work on the training ground. The preseason was to stay physically and healthy, and despite some minor issues we had during the ten-day itinerary, most of the players returned to the club in good health and in good shape to welcome the new season."

"The preseason is also about getting new players into the team, and I think so far our new signings have adapted well to the team. I know you will welcome Flynnon, Wilz, Ekitic, Mamadashvili, Armin Page, Freddy Woodman and Kolkz to the club, and I think they have felt the greatness and specialness of Liverpool."

"As time goes by, this feeling will only become stronger. Now, I look forward to returning to the familiar home court and keep working hard."