Liverpool artist John Culshaw has confirmed plans to paint a mural to Diogo Jota following his tragic passing at the age of 28.
The Portugal forward and his brother, Andre Silva, were involved in a devastating car crash that claimed the lives of both siblings last Thursday in a region of northern Spain. The pair were understood to be traveling back to Liverpool via car and then ferry prior to Jota’s return to preseason training on Monday.
Following the sad news, that was postponed until Tuesday. It comes as tributes continue to flood in from across the globe to Jota and his brother, and further commemorations are planned. A new mural honoring Liverpool’s No. 20 is also set to be commissioned.
The news was confirmed by Culshaw on Monday, although no further details were shared. Replying to a request from @TheDalglishStnd on X to paint a mural of Jota, the artist replied: “I’m starting one next week mate.”
Culshaw is responsible for several Liverpool-inspired murals across the city, including to Mohamed Salah and Jurgen Klopp, while he also produced one in April to celebrate the club’s 20th top-flight title triumph.
Jota’s will be among his most high-profile and eagerly anticipated yet, especially for a fanbase keen to pay tribute to the recently deceased striker.
Such was the demand from supporters to sign the book of condolence at Anfield, the opening hours were extended by a further two days and it remains available until Tuesday at 20:00 BST.
Fans continue to leave mementos outside the ground, such as scarves, shirts, flowers and even a gaming pad, which denotes Jota’s hobby of playing the FIFA video games.
The club broadcast a free-to-air show to commemorate Jota’s life on Monday, with an emotional John Aldridge forced to hold back the tears as he spoke to LFCTV.
John Aldridge lays a floral tribute for Diogo Jota
John Aldridge teared up as he paid tribute to Diogo Jota outside Anfield.
"I’m still numb," he admitted. "I can't get my head around the enormity of what’s happened. From the former players, we’re absolutely smashed; we can’t believe what has happened to one of our players who was a hero.
"Even us, we look up to the team and the manner in which he passed away, you’re looking at his three kids, his wife and his mum and dad. It just rips your heart apart.
"People have come to show respect but counselling themselves as well because they feel they need to do something.
"It happened after Hillsborough as well when the pitch was a sea of red and from other clubs as well. That was so poignant, it was so special under the circumstances.”