Rúben Neves and João Cancelo traveled back to Portugal following Al Hilal’s 2-1 loss to Fluminense in the Club World Cup quarterfinals. They returned to attend the funeral of their former teammate, Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident along with his brother André Silva.
Diogo Jota, who was only 28, was a beloved figure in the football community. His brother André was just 26 years old. This sudden loss shocked many, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from friends, family, and fans alike.
Before the match against Fluminense, Neves took a moment to pay tribute to Jota on social media, expressing his deep sorrow and fond memories. In an emotional post, he wrote, “Wherever you are, I know you’re going to read this. We’ve never been one for this sort of thing, and maybe now I’ll regret it a little. But you know what you mean to me just as much as I know what I am to you.”
Neves reflected on how Jota would always remain close to him, continuing, “When I go to the national team, you’ll still be by my side at the dinner table, on the bus, on the plane… you’ll always be there with me, as usual. We’ll keep laughing, making plans, sharing our lives with each other.” His heartfelt message revealed the strong bond the two players shared.
A moment of silence was held before the Club World Cup match, where both Neves and Cancelo were visibly emotional. The players’ reactions spoke volumes about the impact Jota had on their lives and careers.
In a show of solidarity, teammates and staff from Liverpool, where Jota played in the Premier League, also made the journey to Portugal to pay their respects. Notable figures, including captain Virgil van Dijk and manager Arne Slot, were present at the service.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 and made an impressive impact, netting 47 goals and providing 15 assists during his time with the team. He contributed significantly to Liverpool’s success, including helping them secure the Premier League title for the 2024-25 season.
The news of Jota’s untimely death sparked tributes and remembrance efforts from around the world. During a match between Chelsea and Palmeiras in the Club World Cup, Jota’s Portuguese teammate Pedro Neto honored him by bringing a jersey featuring the names Diogo and André onto the pitch.
At Wimbledon, Portuguese tennis players Nuno Borges and Francisco Cabral wore black ribbons during their matches in honor of Jota and Silva, as the All-England Club relaxed its dress code to allow for this tribute.
Additionally, during the reunion tour of the band Oasis in Cardiff, an image of Jota in his Liverpool jersey was projected behind the stage, illustrating the widespread impact Jota had far beyond the football field.
The investigation into the car crash that claimed Jota and Silva’s lives is still ongoing. Authorities are looking into the circumstances of the tragic incident, including whether a blown tire contributed to the crash. It was reported that the vehicle, a Lamborghini, was engulfed in flames when emergency responders arrived.
The Spanish Civil Guard has confirmed the tragic news to media outlets, indicating that the bodies of Jota and Silva have been returned to Portugal for their funeral. This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the profound effect one individual can have on those around them.
As the sports world mourns the loss of Diogo Jota, tributes continue to pour in, illustrating the deep connections made through the sport. Fans, friends, and fellow athletes alike remember Jota not just for his talent on the pitch but for his warmth and friendship off it. The outpouring of love and support during this difficult time highlights the power of community and remembrance in the face of loss.
