Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to his Portugal team-mate Diogo Jota following the Liverpool star's tragic death in a car accident at the age of 28
Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his profound sorrow following the untimely passing of his Portugal teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash at the age of 28.
Ronaldo and Jota had recently celebrated victory together as Portugal clinched their second UEFA Nations League title by defeating Spain in a penalty shootout.
The football community in Portugal is grieving after the heartbreaking news of Jota's death along with his brother Andre Silva, aged 26, in a car accident in Zamora, Spain on Thursday morning.
Ronaldo shared a moving homage to Jota on social media, accompanied by a black and white image of the striker, which when translated states: “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.”, reports the Daily Star.
“Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”
Diogo Jota won the UEFA Nations League weeks before his death (Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
The footballing world has been paying respects to Jota and his brother Andre, with tributes pouring in from various quarters.
Liverpool have spoken of their deep sadness over the loss of Jota in a poignant statement, describing it as an “unimaginable loss”. The club stated: “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 have requested privacy for Diogo Jota and Andre's family, friends, teammates, and club staff as they grapple with an inconceivable loss, stating: “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.”
The club has pledged ongoing support: “We will continue to provide them with our full support.”
Porto, where Jota previously played, expressed their grief: “FC Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who was also our athlete in the youth ranks. Rest in peace.”
Wolves, the team Jota departed from Liverpool to join, conveyed their profound sadness: “We are heartbroken.”
They paid tribute to Jota's impact: “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.”
The club extended their sympathies to those close to both brothers: “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.”