“Oh, he wears the number 20. He will take us to victory, and when he’s running down the left wing, He’ll cut inside and score for LFC. He’s a lad from Portugal, Better than Figo don’t you know, Oh, his name is Diogo!” —those words once echoed through Anfield with pride, joy, and unwavering hope. But in a cruel twist of fate, what felt like a celebratory chant in May has now become a touching farewell.
Diogo Jota, the electric forward who lit up Liverpool’s left wing and stole hearts with every cut inside, has tragically passed at just 28. The news blindsided the football world, leaving fans stunned and heartbroken. Tributes poured in from across the globe—LeBron James, Pau Gasol, and countless others—paying homage to a player whose impact went far beyond the pitch. Anfield may never sound quite the same again.
Jota began his professional career with Pacos de Ferreira, from there he created his own story of success. In 2020, Liverpool signed the forward from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £41m deal. Soon, the Portuguese international became a fan favorite and went on to score 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds. The unfortunate news of his passing sent shockwaves as he and his brother André Silva were k—– in a car crash in the municipality of Cernadilla, in the Zamora province of northwest Spain.
Reportedly, the incident occurred when the Lamborghini they were travelling in left the road during an overtaking maneuver. Investigators at the scene found evidence of a burst tyre, which is believed to have caused the vehicle to lose control before veering off the road and catching fire. Fans couldn’t believe it and started sending in prayers to the family. Even the Lakers legend, Pau Gasol, shared the news on his Instagram story, “DEP, Diogo. Mucha fuerza para toda la familia en estos momentos difícil.”
The message was in Spanish and when translated means, “RIP, Diogo. Much strength to the whole family during this difficult time.” The family lost two members in one crash. Not too long ago, Diogo Jota even got married childhood sweetheart and the mother of his three young children, Rute Cardoso. Remembering the loss, even LeBron James shared, “My prayers goes out to his loved ones during this time! May you all be guided and protected! YNWA JOTA!! .”
The world mourns as fans remember Diogo Jota
When Jota signed, the then-Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, already knew about the player’s potential. “He is a player who gives us so many options to use. He’s 23 years old, still far away from being kind of a finished article – he has so much potential.” The multifaceted forward, who could slot on the wing or play as the target man, became one of the Klopp’s favorites in no time. Even the international teammate and Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, couldn’t believe Jota’s passing.
“It doesn’t make sense. We were just now together on the national team, and now you’re married. To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish you all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.” Even tennis legend, Rafael Nadal, was heartbroken and sent regards to the family during this difficult moment. “What sad and heartbreaking news All my love, affection, and support to his wife, children, family, and friends during such a difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota and André Silva.”
Liverpool’s town hall lowered its flag to half-mast in a solemn tribute to the star forward. Within hours of the heartbreaking news about Diogo Jota going viral, devoted supporters began gathering at Anfield. In scenes marked by deep emotion, they laid flowers, jerseys, scarves, and heartfelt mementos—turning the stadium’s gates into a makeshift memorial for one of their own.
The post “RIP”: Joining LeBron James, Pau Gasol Mourns Diogo Jota’s Devastating Death With Heartfelt Message appeared first on EssentiallySports.