'His family will be present' - Arne Slot reveals special news ahead of Liverpool's season opener

Liverpool kicks off their Premier League campaign as defending champions at home against Bournemouth.

The match carries added emotional weight as it is the first competitive fixture since the tragic death of Diogo Jota.

The Portuguese forward won't be physically present, but his memory will be. He lives on in the hearts of the supporters and in the club's history, as reported by Sports.

His wife, Rute Cardosa, sons Dinis and Duarte, and their daughter will be in attendance on Friday evening. "It's important that we, as a club, show them our support during this incredibly tragic time," Slot wrote in a column on the club website.

"We know this will be a very emotional occasion, being the first league match since losing Diogo and André. As I've said before, the tributes paid across the football world have been truly special. I know we will come together again tonight to honor them," reflected the Dutch manager.

The two brothers died in a traffic accident in Spain in early July. Jota was on his way back to Liverpool and planned to travel to England by ferry. Doctors had advised him against flying due to lung issues. While overtaking on a Spanish highway, a tire blew, causing Jota to lose control of the car and crash. Both he and André Silva were killed instantly.

Last week, Liverpool played their first official match since Jota's passing. They faced Crystal Palace in the Community Shield at Wembley but lost on penalties. Friday evening's match against Bournemouth offers a chance for redemption and a further opportunity to honor their late teammate.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot asserts that while the team needs to improve defensively, particularly in their off-the-ball play, and integrate new players, they are ready for the Premier League season kick-off.