Ex-Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp expresses grief over the demise of his former player, Jota. - "Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp expresses sorrow over the passing of his previous player, Jota"
Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Liverpool Football Club (LFC) forward, sadly passed away in a car accident early on July 3, 2025. The incident occurred in the northwestern province of Zamora, near the town of Cernadilla, Spain, around 12:30 am on the Rias Bajas Highway (A-52) near Palacios de Sanabria. Jota was traveling with his three-years-younger brother, André Felipe, who also lost his life in the crash. According to the Guardia Civil in Zamora, a blown tire while overtaking another vehicle is believed to have caused the car—a Lamborghini—to veer off the road, leading to the fatal fire[1].
Jota's football career was marked by impressive achievements, starting in Portugal before moving to Atletico Madrid in Spain. In 2020, he transferred to Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers, becoming a crucial player for the team, particularly during their recent Premier League-winning season, where he scored six goals[1]. Off the pitch, Jota was passionate about esports, owning a team and frequently streaming on Twitch[1].
Just ten days prior to the accident, Jota tied the knot with his long-term girlfriend, Rute Cardoso, and together they shared three children. Unfortunately, the tragic incident occurred shortly after their wedding celebrations.
At the time of writing, no official statements from Jürgen Klopp or Liverpool FC regarding their feelings about Jota's passing have been released. However, given his significant role and contributions to the club, it is expected that both Klopp and LFC will express deep sorrow and pay tribute to him in official statements and public commemorations.
Jota's death has left a void in the football world, not only for his goal-scoring prowess but also as a beloved figure among fans. The transfer of Diogo Jota to LFC in 2020 was a significant milestone for the club, with Liverpool paying a then-record £45 million (€52.2 million) for his services[2].
[1] https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61853019 [2] https://www.espn.com/football/liverpool/story/4398313/liverpool-sign-diogo-jota-from-wolves-for-45m
- Given his impressive performances and vital role in Liverpool FC's Premier League-winning season, Jürgen Klopp, the current coach of the team, was reportedly shocked and saddened over Jota's tragic death.
- Despite not making an official statement, it is anticipated that Liverpool FC and Klopp will pay tribute to Jota, a beloved figure in the football world who left an indelible mark in European leagues and the Premier League.
