The latest Liverpool news as the club have confirmed the death of the striker, 28, in a road traffic accident in Spain
Diogo Jota in action for Liverpool
Liverpool have confirmed the death of forward Diogo Jota.
(Image: Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
Liverpool have released a statement confirming the death of forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a road tragic accident. A statement from the club 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."
The heartbreaking news has prompted tributes from all around football to be paid, with Premier League clubs showing their support.
Jota played an important role in last season’s Premier League title, scoring six goals in 26 appearances. He also helped Portugal to lift the UEFA Nations League title last month.
His summer break saw him marry long-term partner Rute Cardoso just two weeks ago. The couple have three small children.
Jota signed from Liverpool from Wolves in September 2020. Throughout his career he has been known as Diogo Jota, but that is not his real name.
Jota’s full name is Diogo Jose Teixeira da Silva, but he changed what he was known by when making his way through youth football. He chose the name Jota due to it being the Portuguese pronunciation of the letter “J” for the Jose part of his name - in England it is the equivalent of being known as Diogo J.
He made the change to the commonality of the names Diogo and Silva in Portuguese football, with the change distinguishing himself from the other players with the same name.
His brother, who was two years younger, also played professional football and was contracted to Portuguese second-tier side Penafiel. Unlike Jota, he was known by his real name.