Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has tragically died in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28.
His younger brother, Andre Silva, 26, who played for Portuguese second-division club Penafiel, was also killed in the crash.
The accident occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. local time on the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla in the Zamora region. Reports indicate that the vehicle they were traveling in veered off the road and caught fire after a tyre burst during an overtaking maneuver.
Jota had recently married his long-time partner and was the father of three young children.
A key player for Liverpool since his transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, Jota made over 180 appearances for the club. During his time at Anfield, he played a significant role in helping Liverpool win the Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.
Prior to joining Liverpool, Jota had made his mark with Wolves, initially on loan in 2017 before making the move permanent in 2018. He was also a regular for the Portuguese national team.
Tributes poured in following the news of his passing. Former teammates, friends, and fans expressed their grief and shared heartfelt messages remembering Jota’s talent, dedication, and kind nature.
Liverpool Football Club released a statement about Diogo Jota saying:
“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, team-mates, and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
We will continue to provide them with our full support.”
FC Porto, where both brothers once played at youth level, also issued a message of condolence:
“Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep regret that we send our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who was also our youth player. May they rest in peace.”
The football world mourns the loss of a player known not only for his skill on the pitch but also for his humility and warmth off it.
