Virgil van Dijk in Shock as Teammate Diogo Jota Dies at 28
Liverpool FC and the wider football community are reeling after the devastating news that Diogo Jota has died at just 28 years old. The Portuguese forward lost his life in a car accident on Thursday while traveling in Spain.
Tragic Circumstances
Jota was traveling with his younger brother, André Silva, en route to catch a ferry in northwest Spain. He was returning to the UK for Liverpool’s pre-season preparations. According to local authorities, Jota had been advised against flying due to a recent lung surgery. Their journey ended in tragedy when their car veered off the road and caught fire, likely caused by a tyre blowout. Both brothers lost their lives at the scene.
Van Dijk: “Absolutely Devastated”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk posted a raw, emotional tribute to his late teammate on Instagram:
“Man, I can’t believe it, I don’t wanna believe it. Absolutely devastated and in total disbelief.
What a human being, what a player, but most importantly what an unbelievable family man.
For your family to lose two sons, a husband, and a father is just unimaginable. So cruel and unfair.
My heart is breaking for all of your beautiful family, for Rute and for your kids. I promise you that in these difficult times and beyond, we will always be there for your family.
A champion forever, number 20 forever. It’s been a privilege to have stood by your side on the pitch, and to have been your friend off it.
We will miss you beyond words and never forget you. Your legacy will live on, we will make sure of it.
Rest in perfect peace Diogo & André.”
Widespread Grief Across Football
Tributes have poured in from across the sport. Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, and current head coach Arne Slot all shared their sorrow and offered condolences to Jota’s loved ones. Jota is survived by his wife Rute and their three young children. Tragically, the couple had only just celebrated their wedding two weeks before the fatal crash.
A Talented Life Cut Short
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 and quickly became an essential part of the squad. Alongside Van Dijk, he played 131 matches for the Reds and helped the club secure major trophies, including the FA Cup, two EFL Cups, and a historic 20th league title, tying the English record.
Final Farewell
The entire football community joins in mourning a brilliant player and beloved man taken far too soon. Jota’s passion, talent, and warmth left a lasting impact on teammates and fans alike.
He will forever be remembered — not just for what he achieved on the pitch, but for the person he was beyond the game.
Rest in peace, Diogo Jota.
Rest in peace, André Silva.
