The club said it was devastated by the tragedy as it paid tribute to the Liverpool player and his brother
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota in action against Everton at Goodison Park during the goalless Merseyside derby in 2022. Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota in action against Everton at Goodison Park during the goalless Merseyside derby in 2022. Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Everton have paid tribute to Diogo Jota following the tragic death of the Liverpool player.
The 28-year-old died in a car crash in Spain on Thursday morning. His brother, Andre Silva, also died in the accident, which took place in the province of Zamora.
Jota was a father of three and married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, less than a fortnight ago.
The Portuguese Football Federation is among the organisations to have confirmed the deaths. In a tribute to the forward, who helped Portugal win a second Nations League title this summer, it said: “Much more than an outstanding player, with nearly 50 caps for the National A Team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all colleagues and opponents, someone with a contagious joy and a reference in his own community.”
Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances after leaving Wolves for Liverpool and helped the club to win the Premier League last season.
In response to Liverpool confirming Jota's death, the club stating it was "devastated" by the tragedy, Everton joined those paying tribute. The club said: "We are devastated by this tragic news. Everyone at Everton is sending their thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva."
In a separate tribute posted to club accounts, Everton added: "Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this sad time."