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Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, have tragically died in a car crash, leaving the football world in mourning. The accident occurred at approximately 12:30 AM on Thursday, as confirmed by the Guardia Civil. Jota was travelling back to Liverpool for pre-season training by car and ferry, following medical advice against flying due to recent minor surgery.
Mohamed Salah, Jota’s teammate, expressed profound grief, stating, “I am truly lost for words. It’s going to be extremely difficult to accept that Diogo won’t be there when we go back.” He extended his condolences to Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, their three children, and his parents, who have suffered the unimaginable loss of both sons. Jota had married Cardoso just 11 days before the tragedy. Dr. Miguel Goncalves, who oversaw Jota’s recovery, described him as an “unparalleled professional” who was enthusiastic about the upcoming season. Tributes have poured in from across the football community. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher shared memories of their close friendship, highlighting Jota’s love for sports like darts and snooker. Liverpool have postponed their pre-season return, with players now set to resume training on Monday. A vigil for Jota and Silva is scheduled for Friday at the Chapel of Resurrection in their hometown of Gondomar, Portugal, with a funeral service to follow on Saturday. Fans, locals, and players, including Everton’s Beto and Youssef Chermiti, and Nottingham Forest’s Jota Silva, have laid wreaths at Anfield, Wolves’ stadium, and the Gondomar football academy named after Jota. Liverpool have opened a book of condolences at Anfield and online for fans worldwide to pay their respects.
