DIOGO JOTA might fancy himself as a zookeeper when he calls time on his football career after spending time handling exotic animals in Dubai.

But he faces the wrath of Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker if he does so, as the in-form forward has already found out over the winter break.

6Jota visited Rashed Belhasa’s exclusive zoo in Dubai, and got up-close and personal with the exotic animalsCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18

6Jota risked it all by wrapping an enormous snake around his neckCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18

6Jota was very popular with the monkeys at the zooCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18

While many players spent their time off relaxing, Jota marked his break with a visit to Rashed Belhasa’s exclusive zoo in Dubai.

Belhasa, better known as Money Kicks, boasts an exotic array of animals at his residence, which is famous for attracting visits from footballers.

Jota smiled as he posed for pictures alongside a huge bear, and also wrapped an enormous snake around his neck.

The 25-year-old star also fed a giraffe, handled a baby crocodile, and was swarmed by monkeys as he checked in to the site in Dubai.

But as Jota took to Instagram to show off his unforgettable experience with the animals, Alisson couldn’t help but aiming a sly dig at the Portuguese international.

The Reds’ shot-stopper replied to the post: “Dr Dolittle” in reference to the fictional character who can talk to animals.

Jota is just one of a host of famous visitors to the zoo, with Chelsea duo Reece James and Mason Mount taking advantage of Belhasa’s hospitality last year.

Meanwhile the likes of Paul Pogba, Luka Modric, David Luiz and Lionel Messi have all visited in the past.

And while Jota clearly enjoyed his time away, he’ll be raring to get back onto the pitch for the climax to the season.

The forward has excelled in the absence of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who are both away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Jota scored twice in the 2-0 Carabao Cup second leg semi-final win against Arsenal earlier this month, taking his tally this season to 14 goals in 28 games in all competitions.

Although the £50million signing of Luis Diaz in the last few days might give Jota some more competition for game time at Anfield.

Diaz joined from Porto, Jota’s old club, after the Reds hijacked Tottenham’s swoop for the forward.

6Jota spent time feeding the animalsCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18

6The Liverpool forward grinned as he cradled a tiny crocodileCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18

6Jota also shared a bite to eat with a giraffe