Widespread tributes have flooded in following the tragic deaths of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. The pair died in a car accident in Spain during the early hours of Thursday morning.
The fatal incident occurred on the A52 near Cernadilla, Zamora, in northwestern Spain. According to local police reports, the car they were travelling in crashed after a tire burst while the driver was attempting to overtake another vehicle. Both men passed away at the scene.
Diogo Jota, aged 28, was a prominent figure for Liverpool and the Portuguese national team, earning 49 caps and scoring 14 goals. Just last month, he married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. His achievements include winning the Premier League title with Liverpool in April. His brother, Andre, was also a professional footballer, playing for Penafiel in the second tier of Portuguese football.
In remembrance of Diogo and Andre, a minute`s silence is scheduled to be observed at all Women`s European Championships matches held on Thursday and Friday, including Portugal`s game against Spain. The president of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proenca, released a statement expressing deep sorrow:
“The Portuguese Football Federation and the entire Portuguese football community are devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva in Spain this morning. Far beyond being an exceptional player, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all, with a contagious joy. On my behalf, and on behalf of the Federation, I express our deepest condolences to their family and friends, as well as to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel. We have lost two champions; their deaths are irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honour their legacy.”
Portuguese prime minister Luis Montenegro also paid tribute via social media, describing the news as “unexpected and tragic” for Diogo Jota, an athlete who “greatly honoured Portugal`s name.” He extended his deepest condolences, calling it “a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
Liverpool Devastated by the Loss
Within hours of the news breaking, spontaneous tributes appeared outside Anfield, Liverpool`s home ground. Flowers were laid, and cards referencing fan chants for Jota were left by grieving supporters.
Liverpool Football Club released a statement confirming the devastating news:
“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre. Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and 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. We will continue to provide them with our full support.”
Tributes also came from former and current players associated with the club. Teammate Stefan Bajcetic posted a picture of them training, writing “you will be remembered my friend.”
Anfield legends expressed their shock and sadness. Former defender Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports News he was “just in a state of shock,” finding it hard to believe the news and highlighting the devastating impact on Jota`s family. Former captain Steven Gerrard offered “condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time.” Even Liverpool minority owner and NBA star LeBron James shared his condolences, writing “My prayers goes out to his loved ones during this time! May you all be guided and protected! YNWA JOTA!!”
Andre`s club, Penafiel, expressed their profound sadness at losing two young lives connected to football, extending sincere condolences to family, friends, and those who shared moments with the brothers. The club announced official mourning and plans to pay tribute at upcoming events.
Tributes from Former Clubs
FC Porto, a club with strong ties to both brothers (Diogo had a loan spell, and Andre developed in their youth ranks), shared their grief. Their statement conveyed shock and deep sorrow, sending heartfelt condolences for the loss of Diogo and Andre Silva.
Club president Andre-Villas Boas added:
“This is a moment of profound dismay for the entire Porto fanbase and for all Portuguese people. Two young men tragically lost their lives, two men who represented FC Porto in an exemplary manner and who will be remembered not only for their football but also for their personal and human qualities. To the family and friends of Diogo and André… I offer my condolences. Football has lost two great men. We are left with the honor of them having represented FC Porto.”
International and Former Teammates Pay Respects
Diogo Jota was a vital and popular member of the Portugal national squad, recently contributing to their Nations League success. His international teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, posted an emotional tribute on social media:
“It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together in the national team, just now you had gotten married. To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and Andre. We will all miss you.”
Fellow Portugal international Ruben Neves also shared a heartfelt message, stating, “They say that we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you.”
Before his move to Liverpool, Diogo Jota was a key player for Wolverhampton Wanderers, helping them gain promotion and achieve impressive Premier League finishes. He became a beloved figure at Molineux, even scoring Wolves` first European goal in nearly 40 years in 2019.
Wolverhampton Wanderers expressed their heartbreak:
“We are heartbroken. Diogo was adored by our fans, loved by his teammates and cherished by everyone who worked with him during his time at Wolves. The memories he created will never be forgotten. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and his brother, Andre. You will be truly missed, and always remembered.”
Dominic Ashworth