Jota was part of Liverpool's Premier League title-winning squad, netting six times in 26 matches. He was well-liked among his peers and adored by fans, forging a particularly strong connection with goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who recently completed an £18million transfer to Brentford.
Jota was left emotional by Kelleher's departure from Anfield. He shared an image of the pair with the Premier League trophy on Instagram, captioning it: "All the best, my friend! You'll be missed." The post was accompanied by a raised-hands celebration emoji.
Previously questioned about who his closest friend in the squad was, Jota disclosed in 2024: "Nowadays I would say Caoimhin. There have been a few departing the squad."
He added: "We play a quiz game, we play each other. There is one on the match day program. It is a good way to start the match day action."
Liverpool released the following statement after Jota's death was confirmed: "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, team-mates 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."
The Portuguese national team said: "Diogo Jota was not only a fantastic player with almost 50 caps for the national team, but also an extraordinary person who was respected by all his teammates and opponents. He had a contagious joy and was a reference point in his own community."
The tragedy came just 11 days after Jota married long-term partner Rute Cardoso, the mother of their three children, in Portugal.