Madrid / Liverpool: In a heartbreaking turn of events, Portugal and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has died in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28, alongside his younger brother Andre Silva Jota, 25, also a professional footballer. The accident occurred in the early hours of July 3, as the brothers were reportedly en route to Santander, with Diogo scheduled to take a ferry to Portsmouth ahead of Liverpool’s pre-season training.
The football and music worlds alike are grieving the loss, with Led Zeppelin legend Robert Plant, a lifelong football supporter and Vice President of Wolverhampton Wanderers, among the many paying tribute. Plant, who closely followed Jota’s career during his time at Wolves, posted an emotional message on X (formerly Twitter):
“What a tragic loss. The dimming of a bright, shining light. Thank you for your magic, Diogo.”
Jota’s career began in Portugal before moving to Atlético Madrid and later to Wolverhampton Wanderers, where his performances won over fans and eventually secured him a move to Liverpool in 2020. Known for his technical brilliance, sharp finishing, and relentless energy, Jota was a key figure in Liverpool’s recent title campaigns and a regular fixture in the Portuguese national team.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot released a heartfelt statement, saying:
“What can anyone say at a time like this when the shock and the pain is so incredibly raw? All I have are feelings that I know so many people will share about a person and a player we loved dearly and a family we care so much about. My first thoughts are not those of a football manager. They are of a father, a son, a brother and an uncle—and they belong to the family of Diogo and Andre Silva.”
From the global football community, tributes poured in. Cristiano Ronaldo, his national teammate, wrote:
“It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together in the national team, you had just got married. I know you will always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo e Andre. We will miss you.”
The tragic incident has left fans, teammates, and friends in mourning. Clubs across Europe observed a moment of silence before training sessions, and tributes flooded social media with fans and fellow athletes sharing memories and condolences.
Jota’s rise from a promising talent in Portugal to a European football star was marked by determination, humility, and excellence. His sudden passing leaves a void not just at Liverpool or within Portuguese football, but in the broader sports community that admired his passion and skill.
The football world has lost a shining star, and both Diogo and Andre will be remembered not only for their talents but also for the inspiration they provided to countless young players.
