Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has paid tribute to former teammate Diogo Jota after his tragic death on Thursday.
Jota was involved in a fatal car accident alongside his brother, Andre Silva, as the pair were reportedly on their way to the UK. The crash occurred in Zamora, Spain, when the Lamborghini they were in veered off a road and burst into flames.
Tributes have poured in from Liverpool teammates and high-profile sports stars, and Mohamed Salah has cut his vacation short due to the tragedy. In an emotional statement on Instagram, Van Dijk has also paid tribute to Jota.
"Man, I can't believe it, I don't wanna believe it. Absolutely devastated and in total disbelief. What a human being, what a player, but most importantly what an unbelievable family man.
"You meant so much to all of us and you always will! For your family to lose two sons, a husband and a father is just unimaginable. So cruel and unfair. My heart is breaking for all of your beautiful family, for Rute and for your kids.
"I promise you that in these difficult times and beyond we will always be there for your family. A champion forever, number 20 forever. It's been a privilege to have stood by your side on the pitch, and to have been your friend off it.
"We will miss you beyond words and never forget you. Your legacy will live on, we will make sure of it! Rest in perfect peace Diogo & André."
Jota's death has rocked the soccer community, and past and present Liverpool stars have come together to pay tribute. Former head coach Jurgen Klopp issued a statement, while current boss Arne Slot penned a beautiful testimonial.
Van Dijk's defensive partner, Ibrahima Konate, posted an extremely emotional Instagram reel containing funny moments he shared with Jota. Alongside the video, he wrote: "Diogo... I still can’t believe it. I’m devastated. I have no words to express my feelings.
Jota and Ibrahima Konate shared a close relationship on and off the field
Jota and Ibrahima Konate shared a close relationship on and off the field (Image: Getty Images)
"Beyond the extraordinary footballer you were, there was an exceptional man, a friend, and brother! May you and André rest in peace. I am truly devastated by this news. This club, this family that we shared together, will never forget you!
"I think back to all the moments we shared and I still can’t believe it, they all seemed perfect... You can be sure of one thing: your family won’t walk alone. We’ll be there to help them through this devastating moment.
"I would like to address the world: today it’s Diogo and his brother. Yesterday it was someone else. Tomorrow it could be us. Let’s enjoy every moment that life offers us, with our families, friends, even strangers.
"Let’s try to live in peace and send each other love. We don’t know what tomorrow brings. I LOVE YOU, MY BROTHER."