Cristiano Ronaldo among those to pay heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota after death aged 28 | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo is among those to have paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who has died in a car crash at the age of 28.

Ronaldo and Jota played together for the Portugal national team, and in a statement released on his social media, the Al Nassr star said: “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.”

Fulham striker Raul Jimenez has also paid a heartfelt tribute to his former Wolves team-mate.

“It’s hard to receive this kind of news, and I still can’t believe it,” he said.

“An excellent colleague, friend, and above all, a great father. Thanks for everything, my friend. We’ll always remember you. A hug to heaven. R.I.P.”

Another of Jota’s former Wolves colleagues, Ruben Neves, said: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you.”

Wolves themselves have also issued a statement, saying: “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.”

Another of Jota’s former clubs, Porto, said: “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.”

Jota’s first professional club Pacos de Ferreira said: “It was with deep pain and consternation that Futebol Clube de Paços de Ferreira learned of the death of Diogo Jota and André Silva.

“Diogo and André both played for Mata Real, where they left their mark. They were two extraordinary people who stood out for their humility, responsibility and immense dedication to the club they played for. Both finished their training at the club, and it was also at FC Paços de Ferreira that Diogo began to chart his path as a senior athlete.

“Diogo Jota has become a reference for this club. An athlete with a champion’s attitude who has reached the highest levels of professional football. Since his arrival, he has been an example for the many athletes we welcome into our training camp every year and who dream of one day winning on the world’s biggest stages.

“He is also an example for all the Pacenses of the spirit, dedication and soul that characterise this club. He is one of us, and even from a distance he never let the bond that was created break. This was his club, he never hid it. And his name is part of our history. It always will be. And we will do our best to perpetuate your history, your legacy, so that the young people of this club will continue to want to wear a jersey with your name on the back.

“To the family of Diogo Jota and André Silva, to their friends and to all who had the pleasure of meeting them, Futebol Clube de Paços de Ferreira sends its deepest condolences. Rest in peace.”

It follows Liverpool’s earlier statement in which they said they were “devastated at the tragic passing” of their forward.