A stunning new mural celebrating the late Liverpool star Diogo Jota has been unveiled on the streets of Liverpool, capturing the hearts of fans and immortalizing the Portuguese forward’s legacy. Painted on the side of a house on Lyon Road near Anfield, the artwork by renowned artist Paul Curtis depicts Jota alongside his brother André Silva, who also tragically passed in a car crash in Spain on July 3, 2025. The mural, funded by a record-breaking crowdfunding campaign, has become a focal point for mourning fans. In a dramatic twist, sources reveal that the project almost collapsed when the chosen wall was nearly sold to developers for a commercial billboard, only saved by a last-minute petition from the local community.
A Tribute Born from Grief
The mural, completed on July 21, 2025, portrays Jota in his iconic heart-shaped hand gesture, a nod to his celebratory connection with the Anfield faithful. Beside him, André Silva is depicted with a serene smile, reflecting the brothers’ bond. The artwork, set against a vibrant backdrop of Portuguese colors, was a collaborative effort driven by fans who raised over £26,000 in just days, far exceeding the £2,000 target set by Curtis. The excess funds will support local charities, a gesture in line with Jota’s community spirit.
The project faced a near-fatal setback when the property owner considered leasing the wall for a commercial advertisement. According to insiders, a local developer offered a lucrative deal to transform the site into a digital billboard space. However, a passionate campaign by Anfield residents, including a petition signed by over 5,000 fans in 48 hours, persuaded the owner to preserve the wall for Curtis’ mural, ensuring Jota’s memory would endure in a meaningful way.
A City in Mourning
Jota, who died at 28 alongside his brother in a tragic accident near Zamora, Spain, was a beloved figure at Liverpool, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances since joining from Wolves in 2020. His number 20 shirt has been retired by the club, a testament to his impact. The Lyon Road mural joins another tribute by artist John Culshaw on the Halfway House pub, as well as an earlier “Forever 20” piece by Murwalls on Sybil Road, where fans left heartfelt messages.
The unveiling of Curtis’ mural coincided with Liverpool’s pre-season preparations, marked by emotional tributes during friendlies against Athletic Bilbao. Fans, still reeling from the loss, have flocked to the site, leaving flowers and scarves. Social media posts on X describe the mural as “a masterpiece” and “a fitting homage,” with many praising the inclusion of André Silva as a touching acknowledgment of the brothers’ shared tragedy.
Curtis’ Vision and Fan Involvement
Paul Curtis, known for over 250 public artworks including tributes to Bill Shankly and Hillsborough campaigner Anne Williams, described the project as deeply personal. “This mural is for the fans, from the fans,” he said on X. “We chose this image to show Diogo’s love for the supporters and to send that love back by immortalizing him and André.” Fans voted on the design via social media, ensuring a collective tribute that resonates with the community.
The near-loss of the wall to developers has added a layer of triumph to the mural’s completion. Community organizers, led by a group of local Kopites, rallied to protect the site, with one leader stating, “This wall belongs to Diogo, to André, to us—it’s not for ads.” Their efforts underscore the mural’s significance as a symbol of unity and remembrance.
A Lasting Legacy
As Liverpool gears up for the 2025/26 season, with new stars like Hugo Ekitike and Rio Ngumoha shining, the Jota mural stands as a poignant reminder of a player who gave everything for the Reds. The artwork, bathed in the glow of Anfield’s spirit, ensures that Jota’s contributions—both on and off the pitch—will never be forgotten. With the community’s fight to preserve it, the mural is more than art; it’s a testament to the enduring bond between Liverpool, its fans, and their fallen hero.
