Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has spearheaded heartfelt tributes from players and coaches, both past and present, following the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, who, along with his younger brother Andre, died in a car accident in Spain on Thursday.
Klopp expressed his “heartbreak” upon learning of the untimely death of Jota, a player he brought to the club in 2020 at the age of 28.
The tragic incident occurred when their vehicle veered off a motorway in northern Spain before igniting into flames.
Klopp, currently serving as Red Bull’s ‘head of global soccer’, successfully convinced the Liverpool board to invest £45 million in Diogo Jota after he showcased his talent at Wolves.
“This is a moment I find incredibly difficult!” Klopp conveyed on Instagram.
“There must be a greater purpose! Yet I cannot see it! I’m heartbroken to hear of the loss of Diogo and his brother, Andre.”
“Diogo was not just an outstanding player but also a wonderful friend, a loving and devoted husband and father!”
“We will miss you immensely! All my thoughts, prayers, and strength go to Rute, the children, the family, friends, and all who loved them! Rest in peace – Love.”
Liverpool released a statement including, “Liverpool Football Club is devastated by the tragic news of Diogo Jota’s passing.”
“We have been informed that the 28-year-old has lost his life following a road traffic accident in Spain, alongside his brother, Andre.”
“Liverpool FC will provide no further comment at this time and kindly ask for the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates, and club staff to be respected as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
“We will continue to offer them our full support.”
Liverpool teammate Stefan Bajcetic, who spent the previous season on loan at Las Palmas, was the first current player from the Reds to comment, sharing a training image alongside Jota on Instagram with the caption: “You will always be remembered, my friend.”
Darwin Nunez also paid tribute online to his “good companion” and teammate Jota.
“No words can ease so much sorrow,” Nunez expressed.
“I will always remember you for your smile, as a loyal companion both on and off the pitch. I send my strength to his family; I know he will always be there for you, especially his wife and three children.”
Basketball star and Liverpool shareholder LeBron James shared a message on social media: “My thoughts are with his loved ones during this time! May you all find guidance and protection! YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone) JOTA!!”
“Devastating news regarding Diogo Jota and his brother Andre this morning,” former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher commented on X.
“My thoughts are with every one of their family and friends, particularly his wife Rute and their three lovely children.”
“RIP Diogo,” club legend Steven Gerrard stated. “Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time.”
Diogo Jota was early on described by Klopp as an “exceptional player, exceptional lad.”
He quickly justified Liverpool’s investment, becoming the first player in the club’s history to score in his first four home matches.
He played a pivotal role in Klopp’s squad that secured both the League Cup and FA Cup in the 2021/22 season, narrowly missing out on the Premier League and Champions League titles, which would have completed an unprecedented quadruple.
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