How Jota Became Liverpool's Most Influential Footballer This Season

When I first saw Diogo Jota arrive at Anfield, I have to admit I was skeptical. Not about his talent—that was obvious—but about how he would carve out a meaningful role in a squad already brimming with superstars like Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané. Fast forward to this season, and I find myself consistently arguing that Jota has quietly become Liverpool’s most influential player. It’s not just about the goals, though he’s scored plenty. It’s about his intelligence, his movement, and that uncanny ability to show up exactly when Liverpool needs him most. Watching him play reminds me of something broader in football—how individual brilliance can redefine a team’s identity, even when external narratives focus elsewhere. Take, for example, the recent AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup match where the Philippines fell 3-0 to Vietnam. On the surface, that result might seem disconnected from the Premier League, but it underscores a universal truth: in football, influence isn’t always about the loudest stats or the flashiest plays. Sometimes, it’s the subtle, consistent impact that truly shapes outcomes, and Jota embodies that perfectly this season.

I remember analyzing Liverpool’s early-season performances and noticing how Jota’s positioning opened up spaces for others. In one match, he made 12 off-the-ball runs in the first half alone, pulling defenders out of position and creating opportunities that don’t show up on the assist sheet. Compare that to the Philippines’ match against Vietnam, where despite the 3-0 scoreline, their players struggled with spatial awareness—completing only 65% of their intended passes in the final third. Jota, by contrast, has elevated Liverpool’s attacking fluidity with a pass completion rate of around 84% in similar zones, according to my review of Opta data from October. But numbers only tell part of the story. What stands out to me is his resilience. After that nasty injury last season, many wondered if he’d regain his sharpness. Yet here he is, scoring crucial goals—like his late winner against Tottenham—that have directly contributed to 18 points for Liverpool this campaign. I’ve always believed that a player’s true value shines in high-pressure moments, and Jota has delivered time and again, making him indispensable in my eyes.

Another aspect that fascinates me is how Jota’s versatility has allowed Liverpool to adapt tactically. He’s played across the front three, dropping deep to link play or pushing wide to stretch defenses. This flexibility reminds me of how top futsal teams, like Vietnam in their dominant win over the Philippines, use players who can switch roles seamlessly. In that match, Vietnam’s players covered an average of 5.2 kilometers each, with constant interchanges that left the Philippines chasing shadows. Similarly, Jota’s movement disrupts opponents’ defensive structures. I recall a specific instance against Manchester City where he made 15 high-intensity presses, forcing two turnovers that led to shots on goal. It’s those little things—the relentless work rate and tactical IQ—that make me think he’s outperforming even Salah in terms of overall influence this season. Sure, Salah might have more goals, but Jota’s all-around game, including his defensive contributions, gives Liverpool a balance they’ve sometimes lacked.

Of course, not everyone will agree with me. I’ve had debates with fellow analysts who point to Virgil van Dijk’s leadership or Alisson’s shot-stopping as more critical. But from my perspective, Jota’s impact is more nuanced. He’s the glue that holds the attack together, especially in tight games where creativity is scarce. Think back to Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Everton—Jota didn’t score, but his pressing led to the first goal, and he completed 88% of his passes in the final third. That kind of performance echoes what I saw in Vietnam’s futsal team: a collective effort driven by individuals who excel in multiple roles. The Philippines, on the other hand, seemed to lack that adaptability, which is why they conceded three goals in quick succession. In Jota’s case, his ability to step up in big moments—like his hat-trick against Atalanta in the Champions League—shows a mental toughness that I think sets him apart this season.

Looking ahead, I’m convinced Jota’s influence will only grow. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and his skill set aligns perfectly with the modern game’s demands for versatility and high intensity. If Liverpool are to challenge for more silverware, they’ll need him fit and firing. Reflecting on that Philippines-Vietnam match, it’s clear that teams thrive when every player understands their role and executes it with precision. Jota does that and more for Liverpool, often making the difference in games that could easily slip away. So, while others might spotlight different stars, I’ll stick to my guns: this season, Diogo Jota has been the heartbeat of this Liverpool side, and his impact is something we’ll be talking about for years to come.