Liverpool Football Club and the wider football world are mourning the tragic loss of Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother Andre, who died in a car crash in Spain shortly after midnight on Thursday.
According to Spanish police, the vehicle carrying the two brothers veered off a motorway in the northern province of Zamora before bursting into flames. Emergency responders confirmed the deaths at the scene.
In a statement released Thursday morning, Liverpool FC expressed deep sorrow over the news. “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota,” the statement read. “The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.”
The club requested privacy for the family, friends, and teammates as they navigate the profound loss, adding that it would offer full support to those affected. “We will continue to provide them with our full support,” the statement concluded.
Jota, who had just married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, leaves behind three young children. He had spent the last five years at Anfield, becoming a key figure in the Liverpool squad. In the 2023/24 season, Jota played a vital role in helping Liverpool win the Premier League title, further endearing himself to fans.
Originally from Porto, Jota’s career began at Paços de Ferreira before stints at Atletico Madrid and FC Porto. He made his mark in English football with Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017, earning a £45 million move to Liverpool in 2020. He quickly rose to prominence at Anfield, where he scored 65 goals in 151 appearances and won the FA Cup and League Cup during the 2021/22 campaign.
Internationally, Jota was capped 49 times for Portugal, contributing 14 goals and participating in multiple major tournaments.
Following the announcement, grief-stricken fans gathered outside Anfield to lay down scarves, flowers, and wreaths in tribute to the forward. Messages of condolence also poured in from across the football community, with many players, clubs, and fans paying homage to his talent and character.
Jota is remembered not just for his clinical finishing and relentless work ethic, but also for his humility and dedication to both club and country. His passing marks a heartbreaking end to a brilliant career and a cherished life.
Written By Rodney Mbua
