The world of football is in mourning following the shocking and tragic death of Portuguese international and Liverpool FC forward, Diogo Jota, and his younger brother, André Silva, who both lost their lives in a fatal car accident in Spain on Thursday.

The news, which has sent shockwaves across clubs, players, and fans globally, was confirmed in an official statement by Liverpool Football Club, where the 28-year-old Jota played a pivotal role as one of the team’s leading forwards.

“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota,” the statement read. “The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.”

The incident reportedly occurred in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain, where Jota and his brother were believed to be spending time during the summer off-season. Details surrounding the crash remain under investigation by Spanish authorities, but it has been confirmed that both brothers died at the scene due to the severity of the collision.

The Merseyside club, clearly shaken by the loss of one of its brightest stars, added in its statement that the club would refrain from further comment while it offers full support to the grieving family and urged the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”

As news of the accident spread, football clubs across the English Premier League and beyond took to social media and press statements to express their sorrow and solidarity.

Chelsea Football Club wrote: “Everyone at Chelsea FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre. Our thoughts go out to their family, friends and all at Liverpool FC at this incredibly difficult time.”

Manchester City, Liverpool’s title rival in recent years, also shared a heartfelt tribute:

“Everyone at Manchester City is shocked and saddened to learn about the devastating news regarding the passing of Diogo Jota. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club. Rest in peace, Diogo.”

Newcastle United also touched by the tragedy said; “We are deeply saddened to learn the heartbreaking news of Diogo Jota’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences are with Diogo’s young family, friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) issued a moving statement, not only mourning Jota’s death but also honouring his contribution to the game:

“We are deeply shocked and saddened at the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family, loved ones, and Diogo’s teammates and friends at Liverpool FC. He was a loving father with a young family and a remarkable talent, hugely respected across the game. This is an unimaginable loss, and both will be greatly missed.”

David de Gea, former Manchester United and Spain goalkeeper, added a personal reflection on social media, simply writing: “Sometimes life is very cruel.”

Born Diogo José Teixeira da Silva in Porto, Portugal, Jota began his professional career at Paços de Ferreira before making a name for himself in the Portuguese league. His talent earned him a move to Atletico Madrid, and later a loan — and eventual permanent deal — with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League.

In 2020, he signed with Liverpool FC for a reported £41 million. He quickly made an impact, scoring on his Premier League debut for the club and delivering standout performances in the Champions League, including a memorable hat-trick against Atalanta in 2020.

Despite battling injuries throughout his time at Anfield, Jota made over 100 appearances for Liverpool, playing a vital role in domestic and international competitions. Known for his intelligence, quick feet, and eye for goal, he was widely respected as a hardworking professional and an essential component of Jurgen Klopp’s attack.

Internationally, Jota represented Portugal, earning more than 30 caps and featuring in both Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Jota’s younger brother, André Silva, was a rising footballer in his own right. Though he had yet to reach the heights of his brother, André was reportedly in talks with lower-tier Spanish clubs for a potential move ahead of the new season. Friends described him as equally passionate about the sport and close-knit with his family, especially his elder brother.

A United Footballing Family in Mourning

The deaths of the Jota brothers have united fans, clubs, and the footballing fraternity in grief, with social media flooded by tributes, matchday video highlights, and emotional memories from fans across the world.

At Anfield, supporters have begun placing flowers, scarves, and candles outside the stadium gates, transforming the iconic ground into a growing memorial.

Reports suggest Liverpool may hold a memorial service or tribute match in honour of the fallen forward. The club’s flags are expected to fly at half-mast and a minute’s silence will likely be observed before their next match, though official confirmations are pending.

Jota is survived by his wife and their young child. Tributes have noted his strong devotion to his family, often highlighting how he balanced his professional career with his role as a loving father and husband.

As tributes continue to pour in from around the world — from clubs in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and across Europe — one sentiment remains universal: Diogo Jota was not just a brilliant footballer, but a humble, dedicated, and inspiring young man.

His loss is not only a blow to Liverpool or Portuguese football, but to the global sporting community.

Rest in peace, Diogo and André. Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.