Footballers from across the globe gathered in Gondomar, Portugal, on a somber occasion to pay their final respects to Diogo Jota. The Liverpool forward tragically passed away alongside his brother, André Silva, following a car accident in Zamora, Spain, last Thursday. Jota, aged 28, was returning to England for pre-season training after being advised against flying due to recent minor surgery.
The funeral service took place at the Chapel of Resurrection in Gondomar, near Porto. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and defender Andy Robertson were seen carrying wreaths adorned with the numbers 20 and 30, representing the shirt numbers of Jota and Silva. Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was also present, along with other members of the squad.
A Gathering of Football’s Elite
Among those attending were Portugal teammates Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo, who had recently competed in the Club World Cup with Al Hilal in Florida. Other notable Portuguese players, including Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Danilo Pereira, Jose Sa, and Joao Felix, also paid their respects.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Portugal’s national team head coach Roberto Martinez were in attendance, as was Nuno Espirito Santo, Jota’s former coach at Wolverhampton Wanderers. The presence of such a distinguished group of football figures underscored the profound impact Jota had on the sport.
Remembering a Stellar Career
Jota’s career was marked by significant achievements. Last season, he celebrated victories in both the Premier League with Liverpool and the Nations League with Portugal. In June, he married Rute Cardoso in Porto, and the couple has three children. Jota’s contributions to Liverpool were substantial, with 65 goals and 26 assists in 182 appearances, including an FA Cup win in 2022, two Carabao Cup victories in 2022 and 2024, and the club’s 20th league title.
Jota signed for Liverpool in September 2020 from Wolves, where he played a crucial role in their promotion to the Premier League, scoring 17 goals during the 2017-18 Championship title-winning campaign.
Tributes Pour In
As news of Jota’s passing spread, tributes poured in from around the world. An online and in-person book of condolences was opened by Liverpool, with figures such as former captain Jordan Henderson and deputy prime minister Angela Rayner among those who paid their respects at Anfield. Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed the “sense of shock” felt by the club, describing Jota as both an exceptional player and person. Former manager Jurgen Klopp, who signed Jota from Wolves, shared his heartbreak over the loss.
Messages of condolence extended beyond the football community, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prince William, patron of the FA, and Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro all expressing their sorrow. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah admitted feeling “frightened” about returning for pre-season training following Jota’s untimely death.
The Legacy of Diogo Jota
Jota’s legacy is one of talent, dedication, and sportsmanship. His journey from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Liverpool showcased his remarkable skills and determination. As the football world mourns, his contributions to the game and the lives he touched remain a testament to his enduring influence.
The loss of Diogo Jota has left a void in the hearts of fans and teammates alike. As the global football community reflects on his life and career, the memories of his achievements and the joy he brought to the sport will continue to resonate.
