Video: Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk plays with Diogo Jota’s children ahead of Wolves match

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a poignant display of camaraderie and remembrance, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was captured on video playfully engaging in a game of one-touch football with the young sons of the late Diogo Jota.

Video: Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk plays with Diogo Jota’s children ahead of Wolves match

The heartwarming clip, which quickly went viral among fans, shows van Dijk, 34, smiling and keeping the ball in the air with effortless skill alongside the children, who carried the spirit of their father onto Anfield.

The moment unfolded ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Wolves on Saturday.

Diogo Jota’s sons, dressed in club kits, proudly walked out with Liverpool’s mascots Mighty Red and his companion, leading the pre-match rituals and drawing emotional applause from the crowd at Anfield.

Van Dijk, ever the leader on and off the pitch, joined them for the impromptu game, turning a somber tribute into a joyful celebration of family and football.

Jota, Liverpool’s beloved No. 20, tragically passed away in a car accident alongside his brother before the start of the 2025-26 season, leaving behind a legacy of goals, grit, and infectious energy.

The Portuguese forward had become a key figure in the Reds’ attack since joining from Wolves in 2020, netting crucial strikes in title challenges and Champions League runs.

His absence has been deeply felt, but moments like this highlight the enduring family bond within the Liverpool squad.

Fans and teammates flooded social media with praise for van Dijk’s gesture, with one supporter posting, “This is why we love VVD – captain through and through, honouring Jota’s boys like his own.”