Jurgen Klopp was Liverpool FC manager when Diogo Jota signed for the Reds in 2020
Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Diogo Jota
Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Diogo Jota (Image: Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp has paid a heartbroken tribute to Diogo Jota after the Liverpool FC forward died aged 28. The Portuguese striker has died in a car accident in Spain with his brother, Andre Silva.
The incident occurred in the Zamora region of Sanabria. According to the Zamora provincial council, firefighters attended the scene on the A52, known as the Palacios de Sanabria, after the vehicle caught fire. Zamora News report that emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 1am on Thursday morning, with the vehicle heading towards nearby Benavente.
Klopp was the manager of Liverpool FC when Jota signed for the Reds from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. The German has taken to Instagram to issue a tribute to Jota after the tragic news.
He said: "This is a moment where I struggle! 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 André.
"Diogo was a 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 - LoveJ."
Liverpool FC has released an official statement on their accounts after the tragic news was confirmed. The club said: "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." Jamie Carragher is one of many former Liverpool FC players to have paid tribute to the Portuguese forward.
He said: "Absolutely devastated by the sad news about Diogo Jota. Thoughts are with his wife Rute & their three kids. " Steven Gerrard posted: "Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time."
Fans have also laid floral tributes outside Anfield in tribute of Diogo Jota. One tribute on a floral wreath said: "Such sad news. You will forever be our number 20. RIP Diogo and Andre. YNWA. Forever loved x."
Jota played 182 times for the Reds, scoring 65 times. He was part of the Premier League title winning side last season, as well as winning the FA Cup and League Cup while at Anfield.
Jota was capped 49 times by his country, scoring 14 goals.