Diogo Jota: The Star Who Left Too Soon
Diogo Jota, loved Liverpool and Portugal footballer, died in a car crash with his brother André. He leaves behind his wife Rute and three small children.
Diogo Jota, aged 28, was not just a great footballer, but also a kind, humble, and joyful human being. Born on 4 December 1996 in Gondomar, Portugal, Jota came from a simple middle-class family. His father worked in construction, and his mother was a shop worker. Despite not coming from a famous background, Diogo worked very hard from a young age to achieve his football dreams.
He started playing football at local clubs, managing both studies and training. He moved up from smaller teams to top-level football through hard work and discipline. Coaches always praised him for earning everything through effort and never taking shortcuts.
Jota played for clubs like Wolves before joining Liverpool FC in 2020 for around £41 million. He became a fan favourite and helped Liverpool win trophies, including the Premier League in 2025. In 182 games for Liverpool, he scored 65 goals. He also played 49 matches for Portugal and helped the national team win the UEFA Nations League twice.
Off the field, Diogo was known for his kindness. He regularly interacted with fans, signed autographs, and stayed connected to his roots. In 2022, he even started a football academy in his hometown. Diogo married his childhood love, Rute Cardoso, on 22 June 2025. They had three young children – Dinis (born 2021), Duarte (2023), and a baby girl born in November 2024.
Tragedy struck on 3 July 2025, when Diogo and his younger brother, André Silva (25), were driving on a highway in Zamora, Spain. Diogo was driving his Lamborghini when a tyre burst. The car went off the road and caught fire. Sadly, both brothers died on the spot.
A private funeral was held on 5 July 2025 in Gondomar. Family, friends, teammates, and fans came to say their goodbyes. Liverpool players like Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson, and stars from the Portugal national team, attended. Diogo’s wife, Rute, bravely helped carry his coffin, showing great strength despite her deep pain.
Tributes came from across the world. Cristiano Ronaldo posted, “This doesn’t make sense… Rest in peace Diogo and André. We will all miss you.” Liverpool players like Mohamed Salah shared prayers, and Gary Neville called it “heartbreaking news.” Fans placed flowers, jerseys, and notes outside Anfield and Jota’s academy.
Diogo’s sudden death leaves a huge gap in his family’s life. His children are still very young and will now grow up without their father. Liverpool FC has promised to take care of his family and will continue paying the rest of his contract.
ISH News offers heartfelt condolences to Diogo Jota’s family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.
