Tributes have poured in following the tragic deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, who passed away in a car accident in Spain early Thursday morning. The two were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on the A52 near Sernadilla in Zamora, northwest Spain. Local police reported that Jota’s vehicle lost control while attempting to pass another vehicle, leading to the accident.
Jota had recently tied the knot with his long-time partner, Root Cardoso, and they shared three children. He earned 49 caps for the Portuguese national team, netting 14 goals, and celebrated a Premier League title with Liverpool in April. Andre, like his brother, was a professional footballer, representing Penafiel in Portugal’s second division.
To honor their memory, a minute of silence was observed during the second half of all matches at the Women’s European Championship on Thursday and Friday, including the game between Portugal and Spain. In a heartfelt statement, Pedro Proca, President of the Portuguese Football Federation, reflected, “Diogo Jota was an outstanding player and garnered respect from teammates and opponents alike, known for his infectious spirit and contributions to the Penafiel community.”
“We have lost two champions. Their passing is an irreplaceable loss for Portuguese football, and we will strive to honor their legacy,” he added. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro expressed his condolences on social media, describing the news as unexpected and tragic.
UK Prime Minister Kiel Starmer shared sentiments of sorrow, recognizing its impact not just on Liverpool fans but also on the wider football community and emphasizing the emotional toll on the families of both men.
Liverpool in Mourning
In the wake of the news, flowers were placed at Anfield, and Liverpool’s flags flew at half-mast, with fans singing chants like “He’s Wearing Number 20” in tribute to Jota. The club released a statement expressing its devastation over the loss of the 28-year-old following the traffic accident alongside his brother.
Liverpool FC has refrained from making further comments and has requested privacy for Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates, and staff. Jota’s manager during most of his time at Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp, recalled, “This is a moment that leaves me struggling to comprehend! There must be some greater meaning, but I can’t grasp it. My heart is broken over the loss of Diogo and his brother Andre.”
Klopp described Jota not only as a phenomenal player but also as a loving husband and father. He stated, “We will miss him dearly! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all who loved them.”
Stephen Valletic, Jota’s teammate on loan at Las Palmas last season, was among the first to pay tribute via Instagram, sharing a poignant black-and-white training photo with the caption, “You’re remembered, my friend.” Darwin Nunes also expressed his sorrow, saying, “Words cannot convey the pain. I will always remember your smile and good spirit, both on and off the field, and I send all my strength to your family.”
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher described his shock in an interview with Sky Sports News, stating, “I still can’t wrap my head around this. It’s devastating for everyone, especially his family, wife, and children.” Former captain Steven Gerrard expressed his empathy towards Jota’s family and friends during this dire time. Even LeBron James, a minority owner of Liverpool and star of the Los Angeles Lakers, took a moment to acknowledge the tragedy.
The club where Andre played, Penafiel, released a statement lamenting the unexpected loss, expressing solidarity with the families and friends of both brothers during this harrowing time.
“Two Exemplary Representatives of FC Porto”
Jota was born in Porto and had spent a season loaned to the Portuguese giants in 2016-17, where both he and Andre made their mark. The club’s president, Andre Villas-Boas, expressed deep sorrow, calling it a moment of profound grief for both FC Porto supporters and the broader Portuguese community. “These two young men not only excelled in football but also represented FC Porto with remarkable integrity and human qualities. My deepest condolences go to their families and friends, still heartbroken over their untimely loss,” he remarked.
On the international scene, Jota was a valued member of the Portuguese national team, recently contributing to their second Nations League title. Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute, stating, “This is incomprehensible. We just celebrated your wedding. I extend my thoughts and strength to your family, your wife, and your children.” Fellow teammate Reuben Neves expressed his sorrow, noting, “We only lose loved ones when we forget them. I will never forget you.”
Before joining Liverpool, Jota shone at Wolverhampton Wanderers, helping them gain promotion to the Premier League. On July 25, 2019, he scored the club’s first European goal in 39 years during a 2-0 win against Crusaders. Wolverhampton released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken; Diogo was cherished by our fans, teammates, and all who worked with him, and his memory will live on.”
**Fan Take:** This heartbreaking news underscores the fragility of life, reminding soccer fans of the emotional bonds that connect the sport and its players to the community. The loss of two promising talents like Jota and Andre serves as a stark reminder of the impact athletes have off the pitch, leaving a lasting legacy for their families and the football community.
