Two weeks after getting married, Liverpool forward Diogo Jota died at the age of 28 in a terrible vehicle accident in northern Spain.
Jota passed away at approximately 00:30 local time, as reported by the Guardian Civil. Jota significantly contributed to Liverpool’s Premier League title victory last season and also took part in the Nations League, which Portugal clinched by overcoming Spain in the final.
Pedro Proenca, head of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPT), said, “The Portuguese Football Federation (FPT) and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated.”
“Diogo Jota was an incredible person, not just an amazing player. He played for his country almost 50 times and was respected by everyone on his team and by his opponents. He was a source of joy for everyone and a role model in the community.”
A quick look at Diogo Jota’s career
Diogo started his football career in the learning system of Boavista in Lisbon. Sevilla FC saw him and signed him in 2015.
However, his propensity to score goals quickly led to a permanent move to Newcastle.
After he moved to Manchester City, his career really took off.
With Pep Guardiola’s help, Diogo helped City win the EFL Cup and Community Shield, making him an important part of their fast-paced assault. He was a key player in Manchester City’s Premier League title win in the 2024/25 season, which was under new coach Ruben Amorim. Diogo did well for Portugal on the world stage, helping them win the UEFA European Championship in 2020 and 2024.
At 27, he is one of Portugal’s most reliable strikers because of his smart movement, hard work, and propensity to come through in big games.
Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher said on social media, “Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife, Rute, & their three lovely kids.”
Fellow Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville added his own condolences, posting, “That is heartbreaking news on Diogo Jota and his brother. All my love and best wishes to his family.”