Football World Mourns as Tributes Flood in Following Diogo Jota's Shocking Death
"People say we only truly lose someone when their memory fades," wrote Rúben Neves, a close companion and former Wolverhampton Wanderers colleague of Diogo Jota, on his social media account. "Your memory will live on forever!"
The 28-year-old Liverpool striker met his tragic end along with his younger brother—26-year-old André Silva—when their vehicle collided and burst into flames during the early morning hours on Thursday.
The Portuguese football association was first to announce the devastating news. Chairman Pedro Proença praised Jota as "a remarkable individual, admired by teammates and rivals alike, possessing infectious enthusiasm and serving as an inspiration within his community."
Following his development through Portuguese football with smaller clubs Gondomar and Paços de Ferreira, Jota had a loan spell from Atlético Madrid at FC Porto during the 2016–17 campaign. The Portuguese powerhouse expressed they were "grieving deeply". "We are stunned and profoundly saddened as we extend our sincere sympathies." Liga Portugal went further, stating that "the entire football world mourns".
Messages of remembrance from numerous former teammates of Jota quickly emerged. "Receiving such news is devastating, and I'm still in disbelief," commented ex-Wolves forward Raúl Jiménez, currently with Fulham. "A wonderful teammate, companion, and most importantly, a devoted father. Thank you for everything, my friend. Your memory will endure. Sending love to heaven. Rest in peace."
Ex-Liverpool star Jamie Carragher reflected the sentiments of many following this heartbreak occurring just 11 days after Jota's marriage to Rute Cardoso. "Heartbreaking news regarding Diogo Jota & his brother Andre today," he posted. "Our thoughts go out to all their family & friends, particularly his wife Rute & their three beautiful children."
Jota's last message on X was announcing his wedding on June 22. He concluded with a heartfelt note: "Yes, forever."
Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro shared his own words of comfort. "I extend my deepest sympathies to the family," he posted on X. "This is a sorrowful day for football and for sports both nationally and internationally."
The tragic news reached the British government as well. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy was first to announce that the entire House "mourns this devastating news".
Liverpool released a concise preliminary statement followed by tributes from multiple Premier League competitors. Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United were among the earliest to express their sympathies.
Everton, Liverpool's fierce rivals and the team against whom Jota netted his last professional goal, set aside competition to state: "We are shattered by this heartbreaking news. Everyone at Everton extends their thoughts and sympathies to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva."