
In the wake of the sad deaths of Diogo Jota, a player for Liverpool, and his brother André Silva on Thursday, heartfelt tributes flooded in from across the football community.
Liverpool FC expressed their devastation, stating, “The club is deeply saddened by the tragic news of Diogo Jota’s passing, which occurred alongside his brother following a road accident in Spain. We ask for privacy for their families as they cope with an unimaginable loss.”
Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s teammate in the national team who recently celebrated a victory in the Nations League with him, shared his condolences: “This is incomprehensible. Just recently, we were together on the national team, and you had just married. I send my thoughts to your family and wish them strength. R.I.P. Diogo and Andre. You will be missed.”
Jurgen Klopp, Jota’s manager, expressed his sorrow, saying, “I’m heartbroken over the loss of Diogo and his brother, André. He was not only an exceptional player but also a loving husband and father. My prayers go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace.”
UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, also offered tributes, acknowledging how shocking this news was for millions of football fans, emphasizing the difficult period his family and friends will face.
FC Porto released a statement extending their condolences, recalling both of the brothers as former players.
Numerous football figures have decried this loss, including Aleksander Ceferin, the president of UEFA, reflecting on the joy that Jota brought to the game and stating, “His life was full of joy and potential, taken too soon.”
Ruben Neves, a midfielder for Portugal, gave his respects by expressing that he would never forget Jota. UEFA as a body also expressed mourning for the tragic loss, underscoring how special Jota was in the soccer community.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves not only through Liverpool FC but also throughout global football, reminding all of the fragility of life and the impact of loss.