Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has paid an emotional tribute to teammate Diogo Jota after his tragic death.
The Portuguese forward has passed away at the age of 28 following a car crash in Spain in the early hours of Thursday morning, alongside his brother Andre Silva.
Nunez posted on social media: "There are no words of comfort for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field. I send all my strength to his family, from where he is I am sure he will always be with you, especially his wife and three children."
Liverpool issued a statement on Thursday to confirm the tragic news. It read: "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
"Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
"We will continue to provide them with our full support."
Spanish police confirmed the incident took place in the early hours of Thursday in the province of Zamora. It happened just weeks after Jota's wedding to long-term partner Rute Cardoso.
The Premier League has released a statement following Diogo Jota's passing
The Premier League has released a statement following Diogo Jota's passing (Image: Getty)
Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic, who spent last season on loan at Las Palmas, was the first player to react to the tragic news. He posted: "You will be remembered my friend."
Tributes have also been paid across the Premier League and by the likes of Everton and Manchester United, as the soccer world comes to terms with the news.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher posted 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."
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves and quickly established himself as a firm favorite under Jurgen Klopp, helping the Reds win the FA Cup and EFL Cup.
The Portuguese star was influential in Liverpool's Premier League title success last season, despite missing large periods through injury. He scored nine times, including a key winner in the Merseyside derby against Everton.