|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Compiled by: VoiceAfricaonline sports desk
The global football fraternity has been united in grief and tributes following the tragic deaths of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in a fatal car accident in Zamora, Spain. From governing bodies to clubs, teammates, and world leaders, the outpouring of condolences has underscored the profound impact the Jota brothers had on and off the pitch.
🇵🇹 Portuguese Football Federation (FPF)
The FPF described the loss as “complete devastation,” honoring Diogo Jota as “much more than a fantastic player… someone with an infectious joy.” A minute of silence was observed ahead of Portugal’s Women’s Euro match against Spain, with the Federation committing to “honor their legacy daily.”
🔴 Liverpool Football Club
Liverpool FC said it was “devastated” by the news, issuing an emotional statement and pledging “full support to Jota’s family.” The club asked for privacy during this period of mourning and described Jota as “a cherished member of our family.”
🏆 UEFA
The European football governing body expressed deep sadness, stating: “The entire football community shares in this loss.” UEFA extended its condolences to the families, friends, and teammates of both brothers.
🇵🇹 FC Porto & Sporting CP
FC Porto: “We are in mourning. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Diogo and André.”
Sporting Lisbon: “The world of football has become poorer. We offer our deepest condolences to the entire family.”
🏛️ Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro
In a national statement, Prime Minister Montenegro called the crash “unexpected and tragic,” describing it as “a sad day for national and international sport.” He offered “deepest condolences” to the family and all of Portugal.
🗣️ Teammates, Coaches & Football Legends Speak
Gary Neville: “That is heartbreaking news … All my love and best wishes to his family.”
Jamie Carragher: “Absolutely devastated … Thoughts are with his wife Rute and their three kids.”
Ruben Neves: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget!”
Raúl Jiménez (former Wolves teammate): “An excellent colleague, friend, and above all, a great father. Thanks for everything, my friend. A hug to heaven. R.I.P.”
Fernando Santos (former Portugal coach): “I am shocked, speechless… a very sad moment for everyone.”
🕯️ A Legacy Beyond Football
Other notable figures—including David De Gea, Rio Ferdinand, Iker Casillas, Chris Kamara, Ashley Young, and Laura Woods—shared messages filled with grief and admiration, calling Jota’s passing “heartbreaking” and “devastating.”
The emotional tributes reflect the void left behind by Diogo Jota and André Silva, not just in footballing circles but in the hearts of all who admired them. As the world mourns, the legacy of talent, humility, and brotherhood they represented lives on.
