Tributes one year after the death of Diogo Jota: emotion intact among his loved ones and former clubs
By OnzeActu · · 3 min read
On the first anniversary of Diogo Jota's death, many tributes are pouring in from his former teammates and coaches. From glorious Liverpool to his early days at Paços de Ferreira, they all speak of a humble and passionate man, whose influence went far beyond the pitch.
One year ago today, world football was shocked by the announcement of the death of Diogo Jota, killed in a car accident with his brother André Silva. The Portuguese striker, aged 28, had just won the Premier League with Liverpool and married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, mother of their three children.
A key scorer for the Reds with 65 goals in 182 matches, Jota actively contributed to Liverpool's success, notably winning the FA Cup and the League Cup in 2022, before winning the national title during the 2024-2025 season. Trained at Paços de Ferreira, he joined Atlético de Madrid in 2016, but really exploded at Wolverhampton, where he totaled 44 goals in 131 games and became one of the key figures in the club's revival.
A Portuguese international on 49 occasions (14 goals), he made his big debut by replacing Cristiano Ronaldo during a resounding victory against Lithuania in 2019. His last appearance in the Portugal jersey dates back to June 8, 2025, during the Nations League coronation against Spain on penalties.
But beyond the prize list, it is above all the personality of Diogo Jota which marks those close to him. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher recalls: “Jots was a great guy, always true to himself. He saw himself as a normal person despite his fame. His enthusiasm was unanimous in the locker room, and his passions – sometimes unexpected, like horse racing or darts – brought the groups together. »
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Arne Slot, his last coach at Liverpool, highlights the Portuguese's team spirit: “Diogo left his personal interests aside for the collective, always reaching out to others, whether they were players or members of the staff. The best way to pay tribute to him was to inspire ourselves with his generosity. »
Nuno Espirito Santo, who recruited him from Wolverhampton, speaks of a young man who was “humble and very committed, who never stopped hanging on, even in the difficult moments of adapting to the Championship”. His involvement would have forged the conquering identity of the Wolves of the time.
For Conor Coady, iconic Wolverhampton captain, Jota was “the dream teammate, with an honesty and humility that made him unforgettable. He knew how to unite the locker room and stood out with his thirst for victory, both on the field and in training.” His goal in the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United will always be remembered.
Paulo Gonçalves, technical manager of Paços de Ferreira, does not forget the emotion of young Jota's first professional match at the age of 17: “He had chosen to remain very close to his teammates, faithful to his family and his values. A true role model for the youngest, he was always present during club activities and stood out for his commitment. »
A year after his death, the memory of Diogo Jota continues to unite players, coaches and supporters, who unanimously salute a man of heart, whose passion and integrity will remain forever engraved in the memory of football.