Liverpool Football Club is making headlines again, this time with a  tribute to the late Diogo Jota on what would have been his 29th birthday. The beloved forward, who tragically lost his life in a horrific car crash in Spain earlier this year, is being commemorated in a move that some may see as genuine remembrance, while others could view it as a performative act. Jota's untimely death, alongside his brother André Silva, has rocked not only the football community but also fans around the globe.

Liverpool took to social media, sharing a striking image of Jota wrapped in the Portugal flag and hoisting the Premier League trophy he played a part in winning. The club’s message read, “Today, as every day, we remember Diogo Jota on what would have been his 29th birthday. All of our love, thoughts, and prayers continue to be with his wife Rute, his children, parents, and all of his family and friends, as well as those of his brother, André. Forever in our hearts, forever our number 20.” 

Jota, who donned the No. 20 jersey during his five seasons at Anfield after joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, made a splash with his contributions to the club's success, including securing titles like the Premier League and FA Cup. In a move that seems more about optics than substance, the club has permanently retired his jersey number. Is this a genuine tribute or just a way to cover their bases?

As if that wasn’t enough, Liverpool has announced plans for a permanent memorial sculpture at Anfield to honor Jota’s "legacy." While grand gestures are all well and good, one has to wonder if these steps are truly about remembering Jota or simply a way to keep the spotlight on the club.

The Portuguese Football Federation also joined the bandwagon, sharing their own tribute with a photo of Jota celebrating a UEFA Nations League victory. Their message echoed the same sentiments: “Your legacy continues to inspire us. Forever our number 21. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers remain with your family.” 

Throughout his career, Jota netted 14 goals in 49 matches for Portugal, earning himself a spot in the hearts of fans and teammates alike. But as the football world continues to react to his passing, one must ask whether these tributes reflect genuine sorrow or if they are simply a performative show meant to garner sympathy and support.

As fans and players alike flood social media with tributes, it remains to be seen whether Diogo Jota's memory will be honored in ways that truly reflect his impact on and off the pitch, or if it will become just another moment for clubs to parade their supposed compassion.