Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has posted on social media to express his "heartbroken" feelings after the death of Diogo Jota, who he signed from Wolves in 2020.
"This is a moment where I struggle!" he wrote. "There must be a bigger purpose! But I can’t see it! I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother Andre.
"Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father! We will miss you so much! All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them! Rest in peace - Love, J."
Jota leaves behind his wife, who he married just under two weeks ago, and their three children. He won the Premier League with Liverpool and scored 65 goals for the Reds in 182 appearances in all competitions.
"There are no words of comfort for so much pain," Darwin Nunez posted on social media. "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."
Flowers and floral tributes are laid in front of Bill Shankly statue at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota
Flowers and floral tributes are laid in front of Bill Shankly statue at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota (Image: Photo by Ioannis Alexopoulos/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic, who spent last season on loan at Red Bull Salzburg and then Las Palmas, was the first player to react to the tragic news. He posted: "You will be remembered my friend."
Tyler Morton also posted an image on Instagram alongside the forward, writing: "Devastating. RIP brother you will always be missed and remembered. Thanks for everything. Condolences to the family."
"Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota," a club statement read. "The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
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"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."
"Devastating news about Diogo Jota and his brother Andre this morning," Jamie Carragher said. "Thoughts are with everyone of their family and friends, especially his wife Rute and their three lovely kids."
"RIP Diogo," Gerrard wrote on his Instagram story following the news breaking, alongside a greyscale picture of Jota that had been posted by the official Liverpool FC account. "Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time," Gerrard said.