Who was Diogo Jota? Football world grieves after Liverpool star's tragic death in car crash
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, known simply as Diogo Jota, was born on December 4, 1996, in Porto, Portugal. From a young age, Jota showed immense promise as a footballer, starting his journey in the youth setup of Paços de Ferreira. His talent quickly shone through, earning him a move to Atlético Madrid in 2016, followed by a loan spell at FC Porto. However, it was his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League that truly put him on the map.
Jota joined Wolves in 2017, initially on loan, before making the move permanent. His pace, flair, and clinical finishing made him a standout performer, helping the club establish itself in the Premier League. In 2020, Liverpool signed him for £41 million, a transfer that would mark the beginning of the most successful chapter of his career. At Liverpool, under the guidance of Jürgen Klopp, Jota became a key part of a formidable attacking unit, contributing to the club's Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup triumphs.
Known for his versatility, Jota could play as a forward, winger, or attacking midfielder. His work rate, intelligent movement, and knack for scoring crucial goals earned him a reputation as a 'game-changer.' Despite battling injuries throughout his career, including a notable rib injury in the 2024/25 season, Jota's resilience and ability to deliver in big moments made him a fan favorite at Anfield.
Off the pitch, Jota was known for his humility and dedication. Just days before his passing, he married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, in a heartfelt ceremony in Porto, sharing a touching video of the moment on social media—a post that now serves as a bittersweet reminder of his joy and humanity. The Tragic Accident
According to multiple reports, including Spanish newspaper Marca and local media outlets, Diogo Jota was involved in a fatal car accident on the A-52 highway near Zamora, northwestern Spain, on the morning of July 3, 2025. Reports indicate that Jota was traveling with his brother, André Silva, when their vehicle veered off the road and caught fire. Tragically, both brothers lost their lives at the scene, despite the efforts of emergency responders, including a Medical Emergency Unit and firefighters.
The news, first reported by Spanish state-owned TV station TVE and corroborated by outlets like Sky News and The Sun , has sent shockwaves through the football community. Liverpool Football Club has yet to officially confirm the news, but tributes have already begun pouring in from fans, players, and clubs worldwide, reflecting the profound impact Jota had during his career.
Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
12 minutes ago
Liverpool players join family of Diogo Jota and his brother for funeral held in Portugal
GONDOMAR, Portugal -- Liverpool players joined family and friends for the funeral of their teammate Diogo Jota and his brother on Saturday, two days after the siblings died in a car crash in Spain. The service will be held at Igreja Matriz church in the Portuguese town of Gondomar, where Jota had a home. Portugal's national team coach Roberto Martínez and several top Portuguese players also attended, including Manchester City duo Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias and Manchester United's Bruno Fernándes. Jota, 28, and his brother, André Silva, 25, were found dead near Zamora in northwestern Spain early Thursday after the Lamborghini they were driving crashed on an isolated stretch of highway just after midnight on Thursday and burst into flames. The brothers were reportedly heading to catch a boat from northern Spain to go to England where Jota was to rejoin with Liverpool after a summer break. Spanish police are investigating the cause of the crash, which did not involve another vehicle, they said. They said they believe it could have been caused by a blown tire. Their bodies were repatriated to Portugal after being identified by the family. A wake was held for them on Friday. Jota's death occurred two weeks after he married long-time partner Rute Cardoso while on vacation from a long season where he helped Liverpool win the Premier League. The couple had three children, the youngest born last year. Jota was born in Porto but started his playing career as a child on nearby Gondomar. Their loss led to an outpouring of condolences from the soccer world and Portuguese officials. ___ Wilson reported from Barcelona, Spain. ___
Washington Post
32 minutes ago
- Washington Post
Liverpool players join family of Diogo Jota and his brother for funeral held in Portugal
GONDOMAR, Portugal — Liverpool players joined family and friends for the funeral of their teammate Diogo Jota and his brother on Saturday, two days after the siblings died in a car crash in Spain. The service will be held at Igreja Matriz church in the Portuguese town of Gondomar, where Jota had a home. Portugal's national team coach Roberto Martínez and several top Portuguese players also attended, including Manchester City duo Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias and Manchester United's Bruno Fernándes. Jota, 28, and his brother, André Silva, 25, were found dead near Zamora in northwestern Spain early Thursday after the Lamborghini they were driving crashed on an isolated stretch of highway just after midnight on Thursday and burst into flames. The brothers were reportedly heading to catch a boat from northern Spain to go to England where Jota was to rejoin with Liverpool after a summer break. Spanish police are investigating the cause of the crash, which did not involve another vehicle, they said. They said they believe it could have been caused by a blown tire. Their bodies were repatriated to Portugal after being identified by the family. A wake was held for them on Friday. Jota's death occurred two weeks after he married long-time partner Rute Cardoso while on vacation from a long season where he helped Liverpool win the Premier League. The couple had three children, the youngest born last year. Jota was born in Porto but started his playing career as a child on nearby Gondomar. Silva played for Portuguese club Penafiel in the lower divisions. Their loss led to an outpouring of condolences from the soccer world and Portuguese officials. ___ Wilson reported from Barcelona, Spain. ___ AP soccer:
Yahoo
33 minutes ago
- Yahoo
🎥 Football mourns Jota: Oasis tribute, Henderson and club's gesture 👏
The news of Diogo Jota's passing has deeply shaken the world of football. At just 29 years old, he was tragically taken from life along with his younger brother André in a dramatic car accident. A husband and father of three, he leaves a huge void both on and off the field. Today, at 11, the funerals will be held. Henderson and the fans mourn Jota at Anfield Anfield, Diogo Jota's home for five years, has become the heart of the fans' grief. Numerous floral tributes and tears were shed by those who loved him not only for his goals but for the example of professionalism, dedication, and humanity he always embodied wearing the Liverpool jersey. Among those who came to the stadium was former captain Jordan Henderson, particularly moved. Cancelo, Neves, and Neto in tears during the minute of silence The national teammates, engaged in the Club World Cup, couldn't hold back tears during the minute of silence. João Cancelo and Rúben Neves broke down in emotional tears, surrounded by the affection of their teammates. Pedro Neto, deeply touched, took to the field with a commemorative Blues jersey, with the names of Diogo and André printed on the chest, in a gesture full of pain and respect. Oasis, a chilling tribute at their historic concert After fifteen years of absence, Oasis returned to the stage with a special event in Cardiff. During the performance of Live Forever, the band dedicated a heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota, stirring great emotion among the audience. A profound gesture, received with a long, emotional applause. Liverpool to pay salary until its expiration Liverpool has reacted with deep involvement to the passing of Diogo Jota, showing a commitment that goes beyond mere condolences. Additionally, as reported by Record, the club has decided to guarantee the payment of the remaining two years of his contract to the player's family. Advertisement Already on Thursday, the club had expressed the desire to "immortalize" and retire the number 20 jersey, worn by Jota during the conquest of the last Premier League, the twentieth in the history of the Reds. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here. 📸 MARK NAFTALIN - AFP or licensors
