The sad news of the death of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, has left the football world devastated, and Chelsea captain Reece James has led tributes from the Blues players to the news.
The devastating news broke early on Thursday morning that the Portugal international had passed away, as well as his brother who was a professional player at Penafiel.
Tributes have poured in from around the footballing world for the Liverpool man, who had only recently married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso.
Marca reported that the pair were in an accident in the province of Zamora, and died when their car ran off the road and caught fire.
Diogo Jota lifts the trophy after Chelsea v Liverpool: The Emirates FA Cup Final
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
Figures from Chelsea have begun to send their own tributes after the terrible news, with James and Noni Madueke posting to social media.
The skipper posted an Instagram story saying: “Heartbreaking” whilst Madueke’s own Instagram story posted a heartbroken emoji in response to the news.
Chelsea’s own Twitter page came out with their own statement, which read: “Everyone at Chelsea FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre. Our thoughts go out to their family, friends and all at Liverpool FC at this incredibly difficult time.”
Reece James and Diogo Jota battle for the ball during Chelsea v Liverpool - Carabao Cup Final
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
MORE CHELSEA STORIES
Liverpool’s official statement on Diogo Jota
Liverpool published a statement after the terrible news came to light, with them saying on their official website:
“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.”