The football world is reeling after the tragic death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who was killed in a devastating car crash in Spain along with his brother, Andre Silva.
The 28-year-old Portuguese star and his younger brother, 26, were pronounced dead after their car burst into flames following a tyre blowout on the A-52 motorway near Zamora. The accident occurred shortly after midnight on Thursday, according to Spanish authorities.
The Guardia Civil confirmed:
“A vehicle left the road and everything indicates a tyre burst while overtaking. As a result of the accident, the car caught fire and both people were killed. Pending forensic tests, one of the deceased has been identified as Diogo Jota.”
💔 Liverpool FC Devastated by Jota’s Death
Liverpool Football Club released an emotional statement Thursday morning:
“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club has been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.”
“We request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”
Jota had been a key player at Anfield since his arrival in 2020 from Wolves, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances and helping the Reds secure the Premier League title, the FA Cup, and the League Cup.
🌍 Portugal and Former Clubs Pay Tribute
The Portuguese Football Federation described the loss of Diogo and Andre as “two irreparable losses”:
“Far beyond being an exceptional player, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents. We will honour their legacy daily.”
His former club FC Porto, where Jota spent the 2016/17 season on loan, added:
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. Rest in peace.”
🕊️ Tributes From the Football World
- Ruben Neves, former Wolves teammate: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!”
- Gary Neville, pundit and former Manchester United star: “This is heartbreaking news.”
- Vinny O’Connor, Sky Sports journalist: “He was a much-loved member of Liverpool’s dressing room. Not just as a footballer, but as a human being. Just a lovely, genuine lad.”
💍 A Life Cut Short Just Weeks After Marriage
Jota’s death comes barely two weeks after he married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple, together since 2012, shared three children.
In a touching Instagram post after their wedding, Jota had written:
“June 22, 2025. Yes to forever.”
🕯️ Remembering Diogo Jota
Jota was more than just a player; he was a devoted family man and a beloved teammate whose joy and passion for the game touched millions.
🗣 Fans React With Heartfelt Tributes
Supporters across the globe have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the footballer:
💬 “A tragic loss for football and humanity. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota.”
💬 “Gone far too soon. You’ll always be a Red.”
🙏 Rest in Peace, Diogo and Andre
The football community will hold a minute of silence before Portugal’s Women’s European Championship match against Spain in honour of the brothers.
👉 How will you remember Diogo Jota? Share your tributes and memories below. Stay tuned to The Pop Radar for updates on this heartbreaking story.
