Gondomar, Portugal — July 5, 2025
The football world came together in grief today as hundreds of mourners, including Liverpool players and Portuguese national team stars, gathered in Diogo Jota’s hometown to say their final goodbyes to the beloved forward. The ceremony followed the devastating car crash that took the lives of Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, on July 3 in Spain.
A Tragic Loss Shakes the Football Community
Jota, just 28, had established himself as a vital player for both Liverpool FC and the Portugal national team. His sudden death sent shockwaves across the footballing world, prompting tributes from fans, teammates, and global icons of the sport. The funeral was held at the Igreja Matriz de Gondomar, where family, friends, club officials, and fans paid tribute to a man known for his humility, skill, and passion for the game.
🔗 Learn more about Diogo Jota’s career and legacy on Wikipedia.
Liverpool Players Lead Emotional Farewell
A chartered flight brought Liverpool players, coaches, and staff to Portugal for the service. Key figures in attendance included:
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Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Caoimhín Kelleher, and Darwin Núñez
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Head coach Arne Slot and club executives Michael Edwards and Billy Hogan
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Former teammates Jordan Henderson and James Milner
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Portugal teammates like Rúben Dias, Bruno Fernandes, and Diogo Dalot
Van Dijk and Robertson were seen carrying floral arrangements shaped like Liverpool shirts bearing Jota’s number 20 and Silva’s number 30, symbolizing the bond between club and family.
National Leaders and Fans Pay Tribute
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro also attended the funeral, a testament to Jota’s national importance. Outside the church, hundreds of fans gathered, some wearing Liverpool kits, many in tears.
Gondomar, where Jota’s journey began, transformed into a city of mourning. Streets were lined with tributes, and a public wake the night before drew over 500 mourners, applauding as the brothers' hearse passed by.
Diogo Jota: A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Jota's career had been on a steady rise. After impressing with Wolverhampton Wanderers, he signed for Liverpool in 2020, becoming a key figure in Jurgen Klopp’s attacking lineup. Known for his agility, goal sense, and team spirit, Jota scored critical goals that helped Liverpool secure the Premier League title in 2024 and a Champions League final appearance in 2023.
His passing, alongside his brother, leaves a lasting void in both the football world and his community. Fans around the globe have honored him with candlelight vigils, jersey tributes, and online memorials.
Liverpool Delays Preseason, Mourns a Teammate
Liverpool FC officially postponed the start of their preseason activities to allow players and staff to grieve. The club released a heartfelt statement:
“Diogo was more than a player—he was a friend, a brother, and an inspiration. He will always be part of the Liverpool family.”
