The football world is in deep mourning after the sudden passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota at the age of 28.
News of Jota’s tragic death in a car accident has sent shockwaves across the global football community. Tributes poured in from past and present players, clubs, and football federations, all mourning the loss of the Portuguese star.
The accident occurred late Wednesday night in Spain’s Zamora province, where Jota’s car veered off the road and caught fire after a suspected tire burst while trying to overtake another vehicle. His younger brother, André Silva, a 26-year-old professional footballer, also died in the crash.
Jota, who played a vital role in Liverpool’s Premier League campaign last season, was remembered by his club with heartfelt words. In a social media statement, Liverpool FC said:
“Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club has been informed that the 28-year-old player died in a road accident in Spain alongside his brother, André.”
“The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Diogo and André’s family, friends, teammates, and staff be respected as they cope with this unimaginable loss. They have our full support.”
Liverpool fans laid flowers outside Anfield in memory of Jota, who joined the club from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds.
Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who coached Jota, expressed his grief on Instagram:
“I am devastated by the passing of Diogo and his brother André. Diogo wasn’t just a brilliant footballer—he was a wonderful friend, a caring husband, and a loving father. We will miss you so much!”
The Premier League also released a statement:
“Everyone in the Premier League is shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths of Diogo and his brother André. We extend our deepest sympathies to their family, friends, Liverpool, and all their fans at this heartbreaking time.”
“Football has lost a true champion, and his absence will be felt forever. We stand with our friends and colleagues at the club during this difficult time.”
Jota recently helped Portugal win their second UEFA Nations League title after beating Spain in the final. His national teammate and captain Cristiano Ronaldo shared his disbelief:
“I can’t believe it. Just days ago, we were together in the national team—you had just gotten married. My condolences to your family, your wife, and your children. I know you’ll always be with them.”
“Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”
Jota married his longtime partner, Ruth, just last month. They had three young children together—a four-year-old son, a two-year-old son, and a seven-month-old daughter.
Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez, who played alongside Jota for three seasons at Liverpool, wrote on Instagram:
“There are no words of comfort for pain like this. I’ll always remember you for your smile and as a great teammate on and off the pitch.”
Condolences have also come in from various football clubs, former Manchester United player and pundit Gary Neville, and even British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
UEFA announced that a minute of silence would be held before Thursday’s Women’s Euro qualifier between Portugal and Spain in memory of Diogo and André.
