Diogo Jota once fondly remarked that his brother Andre, who also tragically perished in the same car accident that took the Liverpool star's life, was his most cherished player to watch.
Jota's life was heartbreakingly cut short following a devastating car crash in Spain. At the age of 28, the Liverpool striker died alongside his sibling Andre Silva, who accompanied him in the vehicle. The calamity struck at approximately 12:40 am (local time) near Zamora, a city situated near the Portuguese border.
As the world of soccer grieves - with numerous esteemed figures in the sport, including Cristiano Ronaldo, expressing their condolences - the profound bond shared between the siblings has come to light.
In an ESPN programme titled 'Ball Knowledge' aired in January, when quizzed about his favorite players to watch, Jota instantly responded: "My brother. My brother plays in the second division in Portugal, [he is] by far the one I most enjoyed."
The fact that Jota picked Andre, despite having played alongside some of the biggest names in soccer, resonates deeply considering their strong mutual admiration and respect.
While Jota has received widespread recognition due to his achievements with Liverpool, including a recent championship triumph in the Premier League, it's important to celebrate Andre's accomplishments too.
Diogo Jota with his brother AndreĢ Silva at Porto
Diogo Jota, with his brother Andre Silva, during their time at Porto (Image: Porto)
He played as an attacking midfielder for Portuguese second-tier club FC Penafiel, signing in 2023 after a stint at Gondomar. His career also included spells at Boavista and the U23 team of FC Famalicao.
Andre made 102 appearances and netted 17 goals, primarily playing across the forward line. His efforts this season were instrumental, scoring twice and providing five assists in 32 matches, aiding his team to secure an 11th-place finish in the league.
Liverpool Football Club released a statement saying: "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."
FC Porto also issued a statement. Both Jota and Andre had brief stints at the Portuguese team during their careers.
Jota spent a season on loan at the club from Atletico Madrid in the 2016/17 season, while Andre was part of the academy at Porto.
The club expressed its condolences on X, posting: "FC Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who was also our athlete in the youth ranks. Rest in peace."