Jota on his former teammate Diogo Jota’s tragic death | OneFootball

Celtic winger Jota has honoured his late former international teammate Diogo Jota, who sadly passed away earlier this month at just 28 years old…

The Liverpool forward tragically lost his life on 3 July, along with his 25-year-old brother Andre Silva, after his car experienced a tire blow-out while returning to England for pre-season preparations.

Despite nursing a long-term knee injury, the Hoops wide-man made a point to visit his Celtic teammates in Portugal and spoke about his compatriot, who has been honoured with heartfelt tributes from across the football community.

Speaking to Celtic TV in Lisbon (full interview available to subscribers), Jota said: “I struggle to find words about everything that happened, and I think everyone in the world of football felt the same thing that day.”

“It’s such a strange feeling, so unfair to someone who still had all of his life in front of him. It’s really sad. No one can imagine the pain and suffering of the family, but these are the moments that people should unite, be with them and be all together.”

“I knew him. I played with him in the Portugal Under-21s, and he already seemed like a very mature guy, with a lot of success in football. Everyone could look up to him like a father figure, and this happening just doesn’t make any sense.”

Jota added: “We really need to be strong and together on this, because his memory will live on. The things he did in football were amazing. We need to cherish his life, and he built up an amazing family as well.”

“Us down here, we’ll still keep up doing our thing, fighting and remembering him for all of the things that he has done.”

Over five seasons with Liverpool, Jota won the Premier League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups, featuring in 182 matches across all competitions while playing under managers Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot.

Liverpool announced yesterday that they will officially retire the number 20 shirt in dedication and recognition of their ‘lad from Portugal.’ The English Champions have also confirmed that they will continue to pay Diogo Jota’s wages for the entire length of his contract to help provide financial security to his wife and children.

Very well done Liverpool.

Conor Spence

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