The football world watches Liverpool with heavy hearts. The devastating losses of Diogo Jota and André Silva will hit the team hard. As the 2025/26 season kicks off, players will be going through intense grief. The club’s leadership at Anfield is already preparing for a big job behind the scenes.
We’ve heard from various experts on this difficult situation. Now, three English psychologists have shared their thoughts with ‘The Sun’. They explained what the players might experience inside the locker room.
Focus Slips, Small Errors Happen
Dr. Daniel Glazer, a clinical psychologist and founder of UK Therapy Rooms, spoke about the immediate reaction. He said, “The team will likely feel a mix of extreme grief and a sense of unreality. It might feel like what happened isn’t true.” He explained that top athletes rely on predictable routines. A sudden loss can shake that foundation. This might lead to sleep problems, unwanted thoughts, and changes in how hungry they feel.
Dr. Glazer also mentioned “survivor’s guilt.” This can especially affect teammates who were with Diogo Jota shortly before he died. He added, “The mind looks for answers after an unexpected tragedy.” Studies on these tough experiences show that focus tends to drop during the grieving process. Because of this, small mistakes in practice and games are likely to pop up in the coming weeks.
He believes many players might find a common purpose. They could, for example, dedicate the season to Jota. A shared goal helps lessen feelings of being alone. It also releases oxytocin, which strengthens bonds between people.
Psychologists reveal the impact of grief on Liverpool
Deep Stress and Emotional Numbness
Dr. Ravi Gill, a psychologist and clinical supervisor, highlighted the challenges for those who knew Jota and Silva well. He stated, “For those close to them, the experience might bring on signs of deep stress. They could struggle to focus and feel emotionally numb.” This is especially true when trying to work in the high-pressure world of professional football.
Dr. Gill explained that players often get through these times by sticking together as a team. Structured routines also offer stability during such emotional turmoil. Liverpool quickly offered counseling and grief support. They also provided post-trauma therapy. The club will likely set up group sessions to encourage sharing during the healing process.
Captain Van Dijk will play a fundamental role
New Players Face a Tough Road
Dr. Sarah Boss, Clinical Director at The Balance Rehab clinic, pointed out the best way to support the team initially. She said, “The most effective support at this early stage isn’t about clinical treatment. It’s about giving them space to feel everything that’s happening.” Rituals will be key in this first part of the process. This includes team tributes, sharing memories, and symbolic gestures on the field.
New players, like Frimpong or Wirtz, will face a unique challenge. They must join a team that is emotionally wounded. They will deal with two kinds of pressure. They have to prove their worth while also respecting a grieving process they aren’t directly part of. This could make them feel isolated. It’s crucial they get special mental health support that understands their unique situation.