In Summary:
- Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, died in a car crash on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
- Teammates like Mohamed Salah and former colleagues have expressed deep sadness, with tributes pouring in from across the football world.
- Liverpool FC has postponed pre-season activities and opened a book of condolences as the football community grieves a talented player’s untimely death.
The football world is heartbroken by the sudden passing of Liverpool star Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, in a car accident. Jota, who had just recently married, was on his way back to Liverpool for pre-season training. Teammates and clubs from around the globe are sharing their sadness and tributes for the talented Portuguese forward, and Liverpool has adjusted its training plans to mourn their loss.
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Tributes Pour In for Jota and His Brother
The football world has been quick to express its sorrow and offer condolences following the sudden deaths of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah shared his profound grief, saying he was “truly lost for words” and that the thought of returning to Liverpool without Jota was “extremely difficult to accept.”
He extended his thoughts to their family, emphasizing that the brothers “will never be forgotten.”
Dr. Miguel Goncalves, who oversaw Jota’s recovery from surgery, described him as an “unparalleled professional,” noting his dedication and excitement for the upcoming season.
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher also paid an emotional tribute to Jota, remembering him as “one of my closest friends in football” and recalling shared moments enjoying various sports.
Tributes have been laid by fans and former teammates at Anfield, Jota’s former club Wolves, and even by Everton players, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact of the tragedy.
A vigil and funeral services are being held in Jota and Silva’s hometown of Gondomar, Portugal.
Pre-Season Plans Adjusted Amidst Grief
In response to the devastating news, Liverpool Football Club has adjusted its preseason schedule.
The initial return for players, which was set for Friday for physical tests, was postponed. The team will now have a phased return starting on Monday, allowing players and staff time to process the immense loss.
Jota was on his way back to Liverpool for pre-season preparations when the accident occurred.
Due to medical advice against flying after his minor surgery, he was making the journey by car and ferry.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s side is still scheduled to play their first pre-season match against Preston North End on Sunday, July 13.
The club has opened a book of condolences at Anfield and an online version for fans worldwide to pay their respects to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva.
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Diogo Jota: A Career Defined by Talent and Impact
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, known simply as Diogo Jota, was a Portuguese professional footballer who played as a forward.
Born on December 4, 1996, he began his senior career at Pacos de Ferreira before moving to Atlético Madrid and then joining Wolverhampton Wanderers in England, initially on loan before a permanent transfer.
It was at Wolves that he truly showcased his attacking prowess, scoring 44 goals in 131 appearances and helping the club gain promotion to the Premier League.
In September 2020, Jota made a high-profile move to Liverpool for a reported fee of £41 million.
At Liverpool, he quickly became a vital part of Jürgen Klopp’s attacking lineup, known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and versatility across the front three positions.
Despite facing some injury setbacks, he consistently delivered crucial goals, contributing significantly to Liverpool’s successes, including winning the Premier League (in 2020, though he joined partway through their winning season) and other domestic cups.
His untimely death at the age of 28 cuts short a career filled with potential and already marked by significant achievements at both club and international levels, having represented Portugal since 2019.
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