Former Liverpool winger Sadio Mane has posted a wordless message on social media following the death of ex-teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident this morning.
The Al Nassr and Senegal forward has uploaded an Instagram story with a picture of himself and Jota, alongside two heartbroken emojis and a sad face. In the image, the pair are shown together playing for Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in what was Mane's final campaign at the club before he moved to Bayern Munich.
Jota leaves behind his wife Rute, 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 after arriving from Wolves in 2022.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has also posted on social media to express how "heartbroken" he is after the death of the player, who he signed from Wolves in 2020.
"This is a moment where I struggle!" Klopp 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."
(Image: PA)
"There are no words of comfort for so much pain," Darwin Nunez posted in his own tribute. "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 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."
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"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 added.
"Our deepest condolences are with the loved ones of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, and everyone connected with Liverpool FC following today’s heartbreaking news," a Manchester United post on social media read.
"We are devastated by this tragic news," Everton added. "Everyone at Everton is sending their thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and Andre Silva."