Liverpool and Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas has unveiled a new tattoo dedicated to his late teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life – along with his brother, Andre Silva – in a car accident earlier this month in Zamora, Spain.
Following medical advice to drive rather than fly, the cherished Anfield player was returning from lung surgery during the off-season when a tire on his Lamborghini blew out, causing them to veer off the road just north of the Portuguese border.
The Liverpool team, along with the entire football community, continues to grieve the passing of the Portuguese forward and his brother: tributes have been received in abundance after his demise, and most of his ex-teammates made their way to Porto to attend his funeral.
Although Arne Slot’s men have attempted to return to a state of normality by travelling for their pre-season tour of Hong Kong and Japan, the legend of Jota continues to live on. In fact, the club have decided to commemorate him by retiring the No. 20 number.
Tsimikas, like many of Jota’s teammates, have paid tribute to their late friend in their own, personal way. The defender, as mentioned, has got a new tattoo – one that reads ‘Wish you were here’, with a message accompanied by Jota’s No.20
Just two days following the tragic accident involving the Portugal forward, Puerto Ink Athens shared a poignant post. “Some bonds transcend football. This one is eternal. From teammates to brothers. From Greece to England. From aspirations to Anfield. They ascended together,” the heartfelt caption read.
“They shared laughter, faced challenges, worked hard, and experienced moments that most can only dream of. Until destiny intervened and took one of them away far too early. This tattoo serves not merely as a tribute. It embodies love, sorrow, and memories – etched in silence, worn with honor. Rest in peace, Jota. You will never walk alone.”
During their respective tenures at Merseyside, the duo played together on 54 occasions, collaborating for a goal on four instances. Tsimikas and Jota formed a remarkable partnership on the left flank, and the former’s recent gesture is a genuine display of affection and respect for his late teammate.
In the aftermath of his comrade’s premature departure, Tsimikas took to Instagram to express his sentiments. “Oh, he dons the number 20 and his name is Diogo. We joined the club around the same time. We were newcomers in the city,” the 29-year-old left-back began.
“We have shared and celebrated some of the finest moments of our careers together. Before one of our last matches, you told me, ‘You cross, I score,’ and that is precisely what transpired. We shared laughter and engaged in numerous conversations. You were an exceptional player, a remarkable individual, a true legend, Diogo.”
He concluded, “You will always be remembered and cherished. My heart and prayers are with your Rute, your sons, your little girl, your family, and all those who loved you and awaited your return home. You and your brother Andre will be missed eternally.